STATISTICAL  ACCOUNT 


OF  THE 


SCHUYLKILL  PERMANENT  BRIDGE 


• AT  MARKET  STREET, 


PHILADELPHIA. 


AeV 


BUILT  IN 


1804. 


L_ 


-J 


With  the  Compliments  of 


SAMUEL  L.  SMEDLEY, 

Chief  Engineer  and  Surveyor, 


Philadelphia. 


Architectural  Plan  and  Elevation  of  the  Schuylkill  P.  Bridge. 


/ 


A The  Frame  before  Covering. 

B The  Cover. 

C Surface  of  the  Rock  at  the  Bottom. 


A 


STATISTICAL  ACCOUNT 

OF  THE 

Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge, 


Commenced  September  5th  1801.  Opened  January  1st  1805. 


COMMUNICATED 


TO  THE 

PHILADELPHIA  SOCIETY 


OF 

AGRICULTURE, 

1806. 


PHILADELPHIA: 

RE-PRINT  OF  JANE  AITKEN,  NO.  62, 
NORTH  THIRD  STREET. 


1807. 


THE  following  account  of  SCHUYLKILL  PERMANENT 
BRIDGE,  and  the  circumstances  connected  with  it,  was 
drawn  up,  at  the  request  of  one  of  the  proprietors  of  an  exten- 
sively useful  publication,  now  in  progress.  It  was  found, 
that  the  plan  of  the  worh  did  not  admit  of  its  being  inserted 
under  any  one  article ; and  it  was  therefore  withdrawn.  In 
conformity  with  the  design  of  our  institution,  it  has  been 
presented  to  the  Society.  A statistical  view  of  an  erection  so 
important  to  agriculture  and  the  arts,  is  deemed  worthy  of 
being  communicated  among  the  objects  of  our  attention.  The 
interests  of  this  great  commercial  city,  and  the  accommoda- 
tion of  all  the  inhabitants  of  this  and  other  States,  whose 
affairs  require  an  intercourse  with  it,  through  this  approach, 
are  promoted  by  an  enterprize  completed  with  private  funds, 
and  by  the  exertions  of  a few  persevering  individuals. 
Though  the  facts  of  its  history  are  local,  many  of  them  fur- 
nish instructive  lessons  of  general  importance. 

Philadelphia,  1806. 


^ \5  “V  0 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Archive 
in  2017  with  funding  from 

University  of  Illinois  Urbana-Champaign  Alternates 


https://archive.org/details/statisticalaccouOOpete 


CONTENTS 


OF  THE 

STATISTICAL  ACCOUNT 

OF  THE 

SCHUYLKILL  PERMANENT  BRIDGE. 

Sundry  Bridges  erected  in  Pennsylvania  and  on  its  borders. 
Character  of  the  river  Schuylkill.  Law  for  establishing 

High  street  ferry 7 

Floating  Bridges , an  account  of  them.  Projects  in  former 
times  for  Bridges , and  remarks  thereon , - - - 9 

Commencement  of  plan  of  the  present  Bridge,  - - 17 

Act  of  Incorporation,  and  Organization  of  the  Company,  - 19 

Plans  for  the  present  Bridge , and  its  execution  on  the  plan 
adopted,  - - - - - - - - - 21 

Description  of  the  Bridge,  - - r - - - 26 

General  Observations,  ~ - - - - - - 29 

Recipe  for  Composition  to  imitate  Stone,  - - - 31 

Dimensions  of  the  Bridge, 33 

Amount  of  Toll.  Names  of  the  Officers  of  the  Company,  34 
Extracts  from  Reports  of  the  Building  Committee,  - - 34 

Description  of  the  Western  Pier,  - - - - - 37 

Communication  respecting  the  Cover , - - - 37 

Address  of  the  President  and  Directors  at  the  close  of  the 

Work,  - --  --  --  --  46 

Statement  of  the  situation  of  the  Stock,  in  1806  and  1807,  49 

Coffer  Dams  and  Piers,  - 51 

Remarks  on  single,  or  multiplied  Arches,  - 64 

Chronometrical  Obelisk,  and  its  Inscriptions,  66 

Rates  of  Toll,  established  by  Law  ; and  Rules  respecting 

Transportation,  - - - - - - - 71 

Plate  of  the  Bridge  prefixed. 


A STATISTICAL  ACCOUNT 


OF  THE 


SCHUYLKILL  PERMANENT  BRIDGE. 


The  State  of  Pennsylvania  has  long  been  deservedly  famed, 
for  the  multitude  and  excellence  of  its  bridges,  over  the  vari- 
ous smaller  streams,  by  which  it  is  intersected.  But  no  per- 
manent means  of  transportation  across  the  large  and  widely 
extensive  rivers,  flowing  in  and  through,  or  bounding,  this 
fertile  and  flourishing  region,  had,  until  a late  period,  been 
attempted.  That  thrown  lately  over  the  Schuylkill , at  the  west 
end  of  the  High  or  Market  Street  of  the  city  of  Philadelphia  ; 
one  over  the  same  river  at  Reading  ; those  over  the  Lehigh  at 
Bethlehem , Weiss's  ferry,  and  one  near  its  discharge  into  the 
Delaware;  have  begun  the  career  of  hydraulic  architecture, 
which  will  increase  the  celebrity  of  this  State  in  that  import- 
ant branch  of  public  improvement.  A bridge  over  the  Dela- 
ware at  Easton , connecting  Pennsylvania  with  the  State  of  New 
Jersey , is  in  great  forwardness ; * under  the  direction  of  Mr.  T. 
Palmer . One  on  a peculiar  construction,  and  highly  necessary 
for  the  passage  of  the  mails,  and  other  constant  transportation, 
upon  the  great  Post  road  of  communication  between  the  cities 
of  Philadelphia  and  New  York , is  recently  finished.  It  is  situ- 
ated at  Morrisville)  and  near  Trentcm  on  the  Delaware  ; and  also 
connects  the  State  of  Pennsylvania  and  New  Jersey.  This  lat- 
ter has  been  erected  at  the  expence  of  a Company,  under  the 
superintendance  of  Mr.  Theodore  Burr , who,  as  well  as  Mr. 
Palmer  is  a self  taught  and  ingenious  American  Bridge  Builder, 
and  has  evidenced  much  talent  as  well  as  industry  in  this  struc- 
ture. 


*Since  the  account  was  drawn  up,  it  is  completed  in  its  Frame,  which, 
after  the  example  of  the  Schuylkill  bridge,  is  covered. 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


8 


The  success  of  the  Schuylkill  bridge,  as  far  as  it  had  proceed- 
ed, was  exemplary;  and  instigated  the  commencement  of  this 
work,  as  well  as  encouragement  in  its  prosecution.  All  these 
erections  are  highly  honorable  to  those  who  promoted,  support- 
ed, and  completed  them.  But  that  over  the  Schuylkill , is  the 
only  successful  undertaking  of  the  kind,  attempted  and  carried 
to  perfection  in  and  over  a deep  tide  water.  It  has  been  attend- 
ed with  the  most  difficulty  and  expence;  and  has,  in  consequence, 
more  particularly  called  forth  the  talents,  exertions,  and  per- 
severance of  those  engaged  in  it. 

The  Schuylkill , which  washes  the  western  front  of  the  city 
of  Philadelphia , although  it  affords  great  advantages,  had  long 
been  attended  with  many  serious  inconveniences.  The  frequent 
interruption  of  passage  by  ice  and  floods;  and  the  inefficient 
and  uncertain  mode  of  crossing  heretofore  practised,  had,  for  a 
long  course  of  years,  employed  the  thoughts  and  attention,  of 
many  ingenious,  and  public  spirited  members  of  the  commu- 
nity. The  character  of  this  river  is  wild,  and,  in  times  of  floods, 
rapid  and  formidable;  and,  to  any  structure,  of  slight  materials, 
ruinous  and  irresistable. 

Its  borders,  to  an  extent  of  one  hundred  miles,  are  skirted  by 
precipitous  mountains  and  hills.  Its  tributary  streams,  sudden- 
ly filled,  in  seasons  of  rains,  or  melting  snows,  with  the  torrents 
rushing  down  their  sides,  without  notice  or  time  for  precaution, 
fill  the  river  with  frequent  floods,  which  no  common  works  of 
art  within  their  reach,  have  heretofore  been  capable  of  with- 
standing. Although  these  attributes,  are  not  to  a certain  de- 
gree uncommon,  yet,  in  this  river  they  are  peculiarly  dangerous. 
They  occur  at  irregular  periods,  and  often  at  seasons  of  the  year, 
when  floods  are  generally  unexpected.  These  circumstances,  at 
all  times  created  doubts  of  the  practicability  of  any  permanent 
erection.  The  depth  of  the  water  opposite  to  the  city,  added  to 
the  difficulties  and  apprehensions.  The  expence  in  the  early 
periods  of  its  establishment,  precluded  any  plan,  requiring  large 
expenditures  by  those  who  then  inhabited  Philadelphia  and  its 
vicinity.  In  the  year  1723,  March  30th,  a law  was  enacted 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


9 


“by  the  Governor”  Sir  William  Keith , “by  and  with  the 
“consent  of  the  Freemen  of  the  province,  in  General  Assembly 
“met,”  (which  shews  the  then  style  of  the  laws,)  entitled,  '‘An 
“act  for  establishing  a ferry  over  the  river  Schuylkill , at  the  end 
“of  the  High  Street  of  Philadelphia ,"  granting  to  the  then 
Mayor  and  commonalty,  the  right  to  make  and  maintain  cause- 
ways, on  both  sides  of  the  river,  and  to  erect  a ferry  at  the  west 
end  of  High  Street.  Certain  tolls  were  then  fixed  ; which  the 
present  rates  do  not,  in  any  case  far  exceed,  and  in  many  in- 
stances, i.  e.  for  country  produce  and  manure,  are  much,  and 
liberally  reduced.  No  person  or  persons  (without  violating  that 
law)  could  then,  or  can  now,  “ keep  or  use  any  boat  or  canoe, 
“for  transporting  any  person  or  persons,  creatures  or  carriages, 
“ for  hire  or  pay,  over  the  said  river,  in  any  other  place  between 
“ these  ferries,  now  called  Poach' s (late  Ashton's  now  Sherridine's) 
“and  Blunston's"  (late  Gray's ) “ berries  on  the  said  river,  be- 
dsides the  Ferry  thereby  established.”  By  virtue  of  this  law, 
the  corporation  of  the  city,  have  held  and  exercised  this  exclu- 
sive franchise,  from  the  time  of  its  being  so  granted,  until  their 
transfer  thereof  to  the  present  Permanent  Bridge  Company. 
The  Ferry  was  maintained,  and  generally  used,  until  the  float- 
ing bridges  were  thrown  over.  In  times  of  interruption  of  the 
passage  of  those  bridges,  by  ice  and  floods,  (which  too  frequently 
occurred)  the  boat  was  resorted  to,  for  temporary  transportation, 
and  always  kept  in  readiness  for  use. 

In  December  1776,  when  the  British  troops  had  overran,  and 
nearly  subjugated  the  State  of  New  Jersey,  General  Washington , 
apprehensive  of  being  forced  to  retreat,  with  the  shattered  rem- 
nants of  his  patriotic,  but  enfeebled  army,  wrote  to  General 
Putnam , then  commanding  in  Philadelphia , directing  him  to 
take  measures  for  the  speedy  passage  of  the  Schuylkill , in  case 
of  urgent  necessity.  Orders  were  at  the  same  time  given  to 
collect  all  the  boats  attainable  at  Wright's,  and  other  ferries  on 
the  Susquehanna.  No  pontoons  existed,  with  which  to  comply 
with  the  orders  of  the  commander  in  chief.  It  fell  to  the  lot  of 
the  individual,  who  originated  the  project  of  the  present  Per- 


10 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


manent  Bridge,  and  who  then  held  a confidential  office  under 
the  United  States , to  he  consulted  on  the  subject.  Having  ad- 
vised with  some  Ship- Wrights,  a bridge  of  boats  was  at  first 
thought  of ; but  finally  one  of  ship  carpenter’s  floating  stages, 
used  for  graving  ships,  was  concluded  upon.  This  plan,  on 
being  suggested  by  him  to  General  Putnam , was  instantly  adopt- 
ed and  promptly  executed.  The  critical  and  masterly  stroke, 
made  on  the  British  auxiliaries  at  Trenton , superseded  its  mili- 
tary use  at  that  period.  It  gave,  however,  the  first  idea  of  the 
floating  bridges,  over  the  Schuylkill , composed  of  buoyant  logs, 
for  the  support  of  a platform  of  planks;  two  whereof  now  re- 
main, at  Gray's  and  Sherridine's  ferries.  There  does  not  appear 
to  be  any  express  authority  by  law  for  the  establishment  of 
these  bridges.  The  act  of  1723  recognizes  the  two  ferries  of 
Poach  and  Blunston.  An  act  passed  since  the  revolution,  re- 
gulars and  directs  the  lowering  the  ropes  of  ferries,  and  opening 
the  bridges  (which  had  each  Slip  pieces  for  this  purpose)  within 
a certain  time,  on  notice,  under  a penalty.  This  implied  per- 
mission, appears  to  be  the  only  warrant  for  their  continuance. 
The  first  of  the  log  bridges  was  erected  by  the  Executive  of 
the  state.  This  was  either  much  injured  or  destroyed. 

A bridge  was  constructed  by  the  British  army  in  1777,  when 
in  possession  of  the  City,  on  pontoons  or  large  boats.  But  this 
not  sufficiently  answering  their  purposes,  another  was  thrown 
over,  composed  of  planks  supported  by  floating  logs  after  the 
pattern,  and  perhaps  with  part  of  the  materials  of  the  one  which 
had  succeeded  the  bridge  of  Stages,  and  is  probably  the  one  now 
at  Gray's  ferry.  One  of  the  pontoons,  used  by  the  British , 
prolonged  the  hostility  which  occasioned  its  fabrication.  Two 
of  the  piles  of  the  coffer  dam , sunk  for  the  erection  of  the  west- 
ern pier  of  the  present  permanent  bridge,  were  obstructed  by 
a part  of  one  of  those  boats  which  had  been  accidentally  sunk 
in  1777,  28  feet  below  common  low  water.  It  occupied  part  of  the 
area  of  the  dam,  with  one  end  projecting  under  two  of  the  piles 
of  the  inner  row ; and  had  nearly  rendered  the  erection  abortive. 
It  was  first  discovered  on  pumping  out  the  dam,  in  1802  ; and 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


11 


was  perfectly  sound,  after  a lapse  of  25  years.  The  iron  work 
had  not  the  least  appearance  of  rust,  or  the  wood  (which  was 
common  oak)  of  decay.  The  taking  this  boat  to  pieces,  the 
straining  the  dam,  and  the  leaks  in  consequence,  were  the  chief 
causes  of  an  extra  expenditure,  by  the  company  of  more  than 
$4000,  hardly  and  perilously  disbursed  in  pumping  (which  alone 
cost  from  $5  to  700  per  week)  and  other  labour,  during  forty 
one  days  and  nights,  in  the  midst  of  a most  inclement  winter ! 

The  privations  of  supplies  from  the  country  on  the  western 
side  of  the  Schuylkill , had  always  been  causes  of  regret,  and  too 
often  of  increased  expence,  to  the  inhabitants  of  the  City.  These 
were  most  severely  felt,  as  the  population  increased.  It  would 
be  perhaps  irksome,  to  attend  to  a recital  minutely,  of  all  the 
schemes  suggested,  for  a permanent  passage,  through  a period 
of  near  seventy  years.  It  will  be  sufficient,  shortly  to  mention 
some  of  them.  To  those  who  have  been  actively  concerned  in 
the  present  structure,  most  of  these  projects  appear  to  have  been 
impracticable,  or  unadvisable.  If  they  could  have  been  exe- 
cuted ; the  funds  were  unattainable. 

Some  would  have  the  river  filled  with  a dam  and  causeway ; 
after  a bridge  had  been  built  on  the  flats  of  the  fast  land,  and  a 
channel  cut  through  these  flats.  Some  proposed  a low  stone 
bridge;  to  be  used  only  when  the  river  was  in  its  ordinary 
state ; and  when  raised  by  floods,  the  torrent  should  run  over 
the  bridge.  Thus  intermitting  its  use,  when  it  was  most  re- 
quired. Some  would  have,  with  any  bridge,  arches,  turned  from 
hill  to  hill,  and  thus  occupy  with  impediments,  the  low  grounds, 
which  now  afford  additional  passage  to  the  overflow  of  the 
stream.  The  expence  too,  would  require  the  funds  of  a state ; 
and  never  could  have  been  accomplished  by  private  advances, 
with  any  prospect  of  profit.  Any  buildings,  or  other  obstruc- 
tions, placed  on  these  flats,  will  confine,  and,  of  course,  redouble, 
the  force  of  the  current.  They  would  cause  the  accumulation 
of  the  ice,  and  damming  of  the  stream ; the  most  formidable 
foes  the  bridge  has  to  contend  with.  Some  had  proposed  a 
bridge  on  chains,  stretched  across  the  river,  and  elevated  by 


12 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


columns  of  vast  height,  on  its  banks.  Adding  to  this  visionary 
plan,  some  of  its  advocates  would  have  pillars,  in  the  middle  of 
the  river,  on  a kind  of  wharf,  containing  stone  promiscuously 
thrown  in.  On  such  an  uncertain,  shifting,  and  unstable  found- 
ation, more  modern  projectors  have  contemplated  erecting  wood- 
en superstructures ; and  are  not  yet  persuaded  of  their  being 
dangerous  and  insecure.  If  such  should  succeed  in  a river  of 
tranquil  current,  and  level  bottom,  they  are  not  calculated  for 
one  frequently  impetuous  in  the  extreme;  in  some  parts  of  its 
bed,  covered  with  mud,  in  others  uncommonly  unequal  and 
rocky.  Still  more  ineligible,  in  one,  irregular  in  its  depths; 
which  suddenly  vary,  at  small  distances,  so  as  to  afford  no  en- 
couragement to  depend  on  any  foundations,  or  supports  for  a 
bridge,  but  those  of  solid  masonry ; and  this  founded  on  the 
rock,  which  stretches  across  its  bottom. 

Without  entering  into  controversy  on  the  merits  or  defects 
of  these  plans,  which  were  proposed  for  the  position  of  the  pres- 
ent bridge,  they  are  barely  enumerated,  with  some  of  the  ob- 
jections to  their  establishment. 

Before  the  Revolution,  at  various  periods,  citizens  of  intelli- 
gence and  talents,  had  abandoned  the  idea  of  erecting  a bridge, 
in  the  deep  tide  water,  opposite  the  city,  They  sought  for  sit- 
uations, less  difficult;  and  higher  up  the  river.  Applications 
were  presented  to  the  General  Assembly  of  the  Province ; and 
surveys  and  accurate  examinations  were  made,  under  the 
directions  of  a committee  of  the  Legislature.  The  places 
viewed,  were  Peter's  Island , and  the  Fording  place , nearer  the 
falls ; which  was,  in  early  times,  the  most  common  passage  over 
the  river.  The  road  leading  over  it,  is  called,  in  antient  deeds 
and  other  writings,  “ The  old  Lancaster  road .”  A third  site 
offered  for  the  consideration  of  this  committee,  was  the  great 
falls  of  Schuylkill ; where  such  an  erection  was  said  to  be  prac- 
ticable, directly  across  the  reef  of  elevated  rocks,  forming  the 
obstructions  in  that  part  of  the  stream.  Maps  and  measurements 
of  these  places,  and  their  distances  from  the  city,  and  varticu- 
larly  of  Peter's  Island , (which  was  the  place  generally  fixed  on, 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


13 


as  possessing  the  greatest  facilities  and  advantages,  positive  and 
relative,)  were  made,  and  are  yet  extant.  The  route  to  Lancas- 
ter by  this  place,  through  part  of  the  Ridge  or  Wissahiccon 
road,  is  shorter  than  that  passing  over  the  bridge  opposite  the 
city.  The  distance  by  either  place  is  not  much  greater.  Al- 
though a bridge  may  be  erected,  at  either  place,  for  a sum  not 
exceeding  a fourth  and  probably  a fifth,  of  the  cost  of  the  per- 
manent bridge  at  High  street,  yet  these  sites  cannot  rival  the  lat 
ter.  They  do  not  unite  all  interests,  by  being  so  generally  ac- 
commodatory  to  travellers  and  transportation,  from  all  quarters, 
southerly  and  westerly  of  the  city.  Their  use  will  therefore  be 
partial,  and  the  object  of  a distant  day.  Conflicting  interests , 
and  the  disinclination  of  the  Legislature,  to  afford  sufficient 
means  out  of  the  public  funds,  occasioned  the  abandonment  of 
the  measure  at  that  time.  The  competitions  ended  in  a lesson, 
which  zealous  schemers  never  read  ; to  wit ; — Opposing  advo- 
cates, for  local  and  clashing  advantages,  not  unfrequently  gain 
nothing  ; and  are  sure  to  defeat  the  object  of  all. 

Another  project  of  a bridge  over  one  of  these  places  was  pro- 
posed, at  the  time  when  the  canal  from  Norristown , was  first 
contemplated.  The  canal  was  thought,  by  many  persons  of  in- 
telligence, to  be  more  easily  and  oeconomically  practicable,  on 
the  west  side  of  the  river.  It  was  proposed  to  erect,  at  one  or 
the  other  of  the  places  last  mentioned,  an  aqueduct  bridge,  over 
which,  the  canal  should  cross  the  river,;  with  a tow-path  or 
passage  way,  on  each  side  of  the  channel  for  the  water,  for  tra- 
velling and  land  transportation.  This  is  yet  believed  to  have 
been  not  only  practicable,  but  also,  that  it  could  have  been 
nearly  completed,  with  the  sum  expended  on  that  unfortunate, 
though  highly  desirable  enterprize.  This  is  not  mentioned  with 
any  view  of  censure ; because  the  obstacles  occurring  on  the 
east  side,  very  many  whereof  would  have  been  avoided  on  the 
west,  compelled  expenditures,  not  calculated  upon  or  foreseen : 
And  pre-conceived  opinions  are  often  found  fallacious,  when 
brought  to  the  test  of  practice. 

A little  out  of  its  order,  is  mentioned  the  last  unexecuted 


14 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


plan,  for  erecting  a wooden  bridge,  over  the  middle  ferry,  in  the 
year  1767.  A subscription  for  the  purpose  was  circulated,  and 
many  respectable  citizens  agreed  to  contribute.  But  this,  from 
various  causes,  fell  through ; and  all  efforts  to  accomplish  the 
object  were  suspended  for  many  years.  This  bridge  was  con- 
templated to  be  of  one  arch,  with  stone  abutments  ; a plan  still 
believed  by  some  of  its  former  advocates,  to  be. practicable  and 
most  oeconomical.  The  intended  span  was  to  have  been  400 
feet:  height  from  the  water  47  1-2  feet. 

In  theory,  it  seems  reconcilable  with  principles,  that  an  arch 
of  wood  or  iron,  may  be  extended  to  any  length  of  span,  with 
sufficient  elevation.  The  point  of  either  practicability  or  dis- 
cretion, has  never  been  precisely  fixed.  In  a modern  proposal 
for  a single  arch  of  iron,  over  the  Thames , in  place  of  old  Lon- 
don Bridge , a project  is  exhibited  for  an  arch  of  600  feet  span. 
All  agree  in  the  theory,  but  practical  men  shrink  at  the  danger; 
though  there  are  respectable  opinions  of  intelligent  theorists,  in 
favour  of  its  principles.  According  to  the  best  opinions  of  prac- 
tical men  here,  (among  them  Mr.  Weston  and  Mr;  Palmer ,)  one 
of  200  feet  begins  to  be  critical  and  hazardous.  The  timber 
arch  of  Piscataway  bridge,  erected  by  Mr.  Palmer , spans  244 
feet ; but  he  declared  he  would  not  again  attempt  one  of  simi- 
lar extent.  The  most  intelligent  among  those  who  have  gained 
experience  in  the  late  structure,  believe,  that  the  span  intended 
for  the  Schuylkill , in  the  last  project,  the  draft  whereof  has  been 
often  seen  by  them,  was  too  extended  for  this  spot ; and  that  it 
would  most  probably  have  failed.  The  weight  of  transportation 
here  is  uncommon  and  constant,  and  the  friction  of  course  in- 
cessant. Strength,  symmetry  and  firmness,  are  required  here  ; 
of  which  one  very  extended  arch  is  incapable.  Although  wood 
or  iron  may  be  so  framed,  as  to  have  the  least  possible  drift , or 
lateral  thrust , on  the  abutments  or  piers,  yet  there  is  a point, 
beyond  which  it  is  dangerous  to  pass.  Of  stone  or  brick  it 
would  be  adventurous,  beyond  all  common  discretion,  to  risque 
an  arch  of  such  a span.  Nor  is  the  undulatory  motion  of  an 
extensive  arch,  (however  composed)  an  unimportant  objection. 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


15 


A bridge  of  so  extended  a span  must  have  been  (to  be  safe) 
so  much  more  elevated,  that  the  filling  would  have  pressed  the 
walls  too  dangerously.  Some  relief  might  have  been  given  by 
culverts,  or  reversed  arches,  to  save  filling ; but  these  are  not 
without  their  disadvantages.  The  pressure  on  the  walls  of  the 
present  western  abutment  and  wings,  is  quite  as  much  as  ma- 
sonry on  piles  will  bear ; and  no  other  foundation  could  have 
been  had,  but  at  an  unwarrantable  expence,  the  rock  at  the  site 
of  the  abutment,  being  covered  with  mud  and  gravel  38  to  40 
feet  deep.  It  was  deemed,  and  found  prudent,  to  sink  the 
whole  frame  of  the  present  structure,  three  feet  into  the  piers, 
and  imposts  of  the  abutments,  as  well  to  avoid  over  weight  of 
filling,  as  to  depress  the  platform,  or  travelling  floor,  to  a point 
easy  of  access.  An  approach  of  the  abutments,  for  an  arch  of 
400  feet  span,  would  have  created  a necessity  (not  known  when 
such  a plan  was  proposed)  for  coffer  dams , and  all  their  dangers 
and  expence.  The  present  bridge  enlarges  the  passage  for  the 
water,  at  least,  a fifth.  One  for  an  arch  of  300  to  350  feet,  would 
have  diminished  it  in  a greater  proportion ; because  the  abut- 
ments must  have  approached  each  other,  so  as  to  occupy  the 
position  now  open,  through  the  land  or  side  arches. 

No  person  engaged  in  such  difficult  works,  should  risque  any 
project  to  save  expence  of  foundations,  for  piers  or  abutments. 
But  on  the  other  hand,  coffer  dams  should  be  avoided,  if  any 
other  means  can,  with  common  prudence,  be  adopted.  Their 
expence  is  enormous,  and  their  success  not  always  to  be  ensured. 
The  great  proportion  of  the  expenditures  in  the  Schuylkill  bridge, 
has  been  incurred  by  the  inevitable  necessity  for  coffer  dams. 
The  labour  applied,  and  the  difficulties  encountered  and  over- 
come, will  appear  to  the  best  informed  engineers,  uncommon 
and  singularly  arduous,  as  will  appear  by  the  short  account  of 
them  subjoined  to  the  present  statement.  Every  effort  was 
made  to  avoid  the  necessity  of  these  dams,  but  on  duly  weigh- 
ing all  the  projects  suggested,  none  could  be  adopted  with  any 
prospect  of  safety.  The  irregularity  of  the  bottom,  and  depth 
of  water,  at  once  were  found  to  forbid  the  use  of  Batterdeaus. 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


16 


Floats  were  thought  of,  composed  of  a platform  of  logs,  on  which 
masonry  should  be  formed.  These  were  to  be  built  on,  with 
logs  at  the  sides,  and  others  crossing  the  whole,  bolted  like 
wharves ; filled  in  with  masonry,  and  raised  on  as  they  sunk, 
till  having  lodged  on  the  bottom,  they  should  compose  the  found- 
ation for  masonry,  from  low  water  mark.  But  no  horizontal, 
or  solid  position  could  be  obtained  for  them.  All  the  objections 
to  batterdeaus  lay  against  them.  A flood  too,  might  have  car- 
ried them  off  in  an  unfinished  state.  This  was  proved,  when  a 
few  of  the  belts  of  the  coffer  dam  (light  and  buoyant,  compared 
to  these  floats,  and  more  easily  secured)  were  swept  away  by  a 
summer  fresh ; though  they  had  been  supported  by  some  piles, 
and  moored  with  anchors  and  cables,  capable  of  holding  a stout 
frigate.  The  levelling  the  bottom,  or  making  one  artificially 
(as  was  done  by  Semple  at  the  Essex  bridge  in  Dublin ) was  found 
impracticable,  on  account  of  the  thick  cover  (13  feet)  of  mud  in 
some  parts,  and  the  total  bareness  and  unevenness  of  the  rock 
in  others.  It  became  a choice  of  difficulties  ; and  the  coffer  dam , 
or  no  bridge,  was  the  alternative.  Projects  easily  and  cheaply 
to  be  accomplished  in  shallow  streams,  with  level  bottoms,  or 
those  capable  of  being  artificially  made  so,  were  all  found  im- 
practicable, and  to  the  last  degree  imprudent  here.  The  modes 
pursued  in  New  England , either  of  piles,  wharves,  log  frames, 
or  stones  loosely  thrown  into  the  stream,  were  considered  and 
condemned.  The  destruction  of  many  of  the  bridges  of  that 
country  was  predicted ; but  with  a hope  that  this  apprehension 
might  prove  unfounded,  as  the  enterprizes  of  the  people  there 
were  admired  and  applauded.  Sounds , or  arms  of  the  sea,  shel- 
tered from  violent  storms,  broad  rivers,  capable  of  holding  piles, 
and  affording  extensive  flats,  for  overflows  and  waste  of  floods ; 
will  admit  of  slighter  foundations,  though  always  exposed  to 
danger,  under  uncommon  circumstances.  Many  of  the  sites  of 
eastern  bridges  are  of  this  description 

The  pressing  necessity  for  some  permanent  structure,  called 
the  attention  of  many  citizens  to  the  subject.  But  none,  for  a 
long  course  of  time,  attempted  any  decided  measure,  till  the  one 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


17 


whose  endeavours  were  finally  crowned  with  success,  in  the  ac- 
complishment of  the  present  erection,  moved  in  this  important 
desideratum . It  was  contemplated,  originally,  to  erect  the  bridge, 
at  a small  distance  above  the  upper,  or  Roach's  ferry.  One 
object  in  fixing  on  this  site,  was  its  supposed  advantages  in 
point  of  practicability.  But  no  inconsiderable  motive,  was  that 
of  leaving  the  whole  western  front  of  the  City  unobstructed  by 
so  great  an  impediment  to  the  navigation  of  the  Schuylkill , 
which  has  already  shewn  itself  to  be  of  inestimable  consequence. 
The  improvement  of  this  western  front,  depending  so  much  on 
the  navigation  of  the  river,  is  already  in  great  progress.  It 
will  add  to  the  evidence  of  foresight  and  sound  calculation,  pos- 
sessed by  its  great  founder  William  Penn , when  he  decided  on 
the  plan  of  our  justly  celebrated  City.  At  length  however  it 
was  seen  that  a project  of  a bridge,  to  be  effectuated  by  private 
advances,  could  only  be  accomplished  in  a spot,  in  which  a ma- 
jority of  interests  and  opinions  where  united.  Endeavours, 
which,  through  many  difficulties  succeeded,  were  therefore  com- 
menced, for  obtaining  from  the  City  corporation,  the  site  of  the 
present  bridge;  and  forty  thousand  dollars  (one  half  in  bridge 
Stock)  were  paid,  as  the  consideration.  The  General  Assembly 
had,  by  a law,  granted  to  the  Bridge  Company,  the  right  of  the 
Commonwealth  to  a valuable  lot  adjoining  this  site,  on  the 
eastern,  and  a purchase  had  been  made  of  property  on  the  west- 
ern side  of  the  river,  which  is  now  highly  accommodatory. 
It  is  unpleasant  to  mix  the  alloy  of  regret,  with  the  purity  of 
approbation  which  must  attach  both  to  the  site,  and  the  struct- 
ure there  established;  yet  it  is  to  be  lamented  that  one  half  of 
the  western  front  of  the  City,  is  deprived  of  navigation  on  a 
great  scale.  E’er  long  this  river  will  pour  into  the  lap  of  com- 
merce, abundant  supplies  for  foreign  markets ; and  the  land 
transportation  passing  over  it,  is  very  considerable.  Twelve 
feet  water  can  be  carried  over  the  bar  at  the  river’s  mouth ; and 
it  is  well  known,  that  a channel  may  be  made,  to  escape  the 
bar,  for  large  vessels,  at  no  formidable  expence.  Four  fathoms, 
on  an  average,  may  be  carried,  after  passing  the  bar,  up  to  and 


18 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


along  the  whole  City  front.  It  is  to  be  most  seriously  hoped, 
that  no  obstacles  to  this  important  navigation,  will  in  future  be 
added.  One  error  probably  unavoidable,  which  cannot  now  be 
rectified,  committed  in  the  zeal  for  a new  and  essential  improve- 
ment and  accommodation  is  enough.  Passages  for  vessels, 
through  draws , should  be  insisted  on,  if  at  any  time  other 
bridges  should  be  required,  where  they  interfere  with  the  navi- 
gation. Posterity  should  never  be  disinherited,  to  serve  present 
and  partial  objects. 

The  impediment  to  the  navigation  of  the  Thames , by  old 
London  bridge,  has  long  been  highly  injurious.  Insomuch  that 
it  is  said,  in  an  estimate  presented  to  the  British  Parliament  a 
few  years  ago,  (1801)  that  the  difference  in  the  price  of  coals 
above , from  that  below  bridge  would  in  a short  time,  pay  for 
taking  down  the  old , and  building  a new  bridge , to  admit  large 
vessels,  either  under  or  through  the  bridge,  by  means  of  a draw. 
And  there  is  a great  plan  in  progress  for  that  purpose. 

It  is  mentioned  with  no  view  to  personal  adulation,  but  as  a 
successful  instance,  for  the  encouragement  of  persistance  in  com- 
mendable pursuits,  too  often  thwarted  by  opposite  interests  or 
opinions,  that  the  “ Act  for  incorporating  a Company  for  erecting 
a Permanent  Bridge  over  the  Piver  Schuylkill , at  or  near  the 
City  of  Philadelphia  ” was  obtained,  after  persevering  efforts, 
during  several  years  by  the  exertions  of  Richard  Peters , who 
was  elected  President  of  the  Company,  formed  in  virtue  of  that 
Act.  He  originated  the  project  of  the  present  structure,  and 
assiduously  assisted  in  its  execution,  from  its  commencement  to 
its  completion.  In  a pursuit,  generally  deemed  hopeless,  though 
so  obviously  of  public  utility,  he  was  left  solely,  to  encounter, 
in  its  early  stages,  strong  prejudices  and  incredulity  as  to  its 
practicability,  and  many  local  interests  and  objections,  both  as 
to  the  place  and  principles  of  its  establishment.  Much  opposi- 
tion from  several  respectable  quarters,  was  to  be  overcome, 
before  this  law  could  be  obtained.  This  was  the  more  difficult 
to  combat,  because  it  was  grounded  on  laudable  principles; 
though  it  was  foreseen,  as  the  event  proved,  that  their  objects 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


19 


were  unattainable ; and  therefore  that  no  bridge  would  be  erect- 
ed, but  one  according  to  the  project  effectuated  by  the  present 
company.  Twenty  one  townships,  on  the  western  side  of  the 
river,  represented  by  respectable  citizens,  combined  to  prevent 
the  scheme  for  a toll  bridge ; under  the  idea  that  they  could  ob- 
tain one  free  of  toll,  and  built  by  subscription,  aided  by  public 
support.  But  as  this  mode  of  raising  funds,  could  not  be  ac- 
complished, the  attempt,  (the  success  whereof  was  very  much  to 
be  wished)  was  abandoned.  The  Corporation  of  the  City,  were 
very  commendably  anxious  to  erect  a bridge  on  their  property, 
under  the  direction  of  the  City  Councils.  This  would  have 
been  an  appropriate  and  desirable  object.  But  funds  could  not 
be  procured  ; and  their  opposition  was  withdrawn.  The  expen- 
sive and  most  extensively  useful  Water  Works , had  involved 
the  City  corporation  in  pecuniary  difficulties  ; and  operated,  in 
no  small  degree,  to  induce  a sale,  of  their  ferry  franchise,  to  the 
company  incorporated  for  erecting  the  bridge. 

The  Act  before  mentioned  was  passed  the  16th  of  March 
1798.  Its  principle  features  are  similar  to  all  such  incorpora- 
ting acts.  A stock  of  $150,000  divided  into  15,000  shares,  at 
$10  each,  is  established.  To  this  have  been  added  7,500  new 
shares,  to  increase  the  funds;  the  expenditures  being  necessarily 
far  greater,  than  could  have  been  foreseen.  A great  proportion 
of  the  new  shares,  yet  remain  in  the  hands  of  the  company  un- 
disposed of. 

The  usual  arrangements  for  procuring  subscriptions  prefatory 
to  incorporation,  are  inserted.  Three  thousand  of  the  original 
shares,  are  reserved,  fo^  the  purpose  of  a site,  and  to  establish  a 
fund  for  freeing  the  bridge.  Sundry  clauses  relate  to  the  incor- 
poration, organization  of  the  Company  and  its  officers,  and  mode 
of  management  of  the  funds.  Power  is  given  to  the  Stockhold- 
ers to  fix  on  the  site  ; and,  if  necessary,  to  add  shares,  to  en- 
crease  the  funds.  There  is  also  a description  of  the  kind  of 
bridge  to  be  built.  The  property  of  the  bridge  (and  of  such 
other  property  as  they  shall  acquire  for  its  purposes  or  conven- 
ience,) is  vested  in  the  Company  for  twenty  five  years,  after  the 


20 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


same  shall  be  compleated ; arid  the  tolls  to  be  taken  are  ascer- 
tained with  great  encouragement  to  the  transportation  of  country 
produce  and  manure,  and  to  the  use  of  oxen  for  draft.  Penal- 
ties are  laid  on  taking  illegal  tolls,  as  well  as  on  those  who  in- 
jure the  bridge  property  or  works,  or  impede  the  passage.  The 
bridge  is  not  to  be  erected  ‘‘in  such  manner,  as  to  injure,  stop, 
“or  interrupt  the  navigation  of  the  said  river,  by  boats , craft  or 
“ vessels  without  masts  f “and  when  the  tolls  shall  exceed  fifteen 
“per  cent,  nett  annual  profit;  the  excess  shall  compose  a fund, 
“for  the  redemption  of  the  bridge,  so  as  to  render  it  free,  save 
“that  there  shall  always  be  a small  toll,  or  other  revenue,  for 
“keeping  it  in  repair;  this  excess  shall  be  laid  out  in  bridge 
“Stock,  or  other  productive  funds,  and  the  dividends,  or  annual 
“product,  shall  be  also  added  to  this  fund ; and  all  private  dona- 
tions for  freeing  the  bridge  shall  also  be  received  and  invested 
“in  like  manner;  but  if  by  the  operation  of  the  fund  herein 
“proposed,  there  shall  be  a sufficient  sum  to  free  the  bridge,  at 
“a  period  less  than  the  said  twenty  five  years,  then  it  shall  be 
“redeemed  and  become  free,  on  the  Stockholders  being  paid  the 
“appraised  value  thereof,  and  of  the  profits  thereof  for  the  resi- 
“due  of  the  said  term  of  twenty  five  years  which  may  be  un- 
“ expired;  and  if  the  said  fund  shall  not  be  adequate  to  the  pur- 
“pose  last  mentioned,  the  legislature  may,  at  the  expiration  of 
“the  said  twenty  five  years,  declare  it  a free  bridge,  (providing 
“at  the  same  time  the  means  of  keeping  it  in  repair)  and  the 
“ Company  shall  be  obliged  to  take  such  sum  of  money  therefor, 
“as  shall  be  allowed  on  a fair  appraisement  by  indifferent  per- 
“ sons ; the  like  appraisement  shall  take  place,  when  the  sinking 
“fund  is  adequate  to  the  redemption  of  the  bridge  and  the  es- 
tablishment of  a revenue,  if  a toll  be  not  thought  more  eligible, 
“ for  keeping  the  bridge  in  repair ; but  if  the  said  bridge  shall 
“not  be  redeemed,  and  paid  for  as  a free  bridge,  before  or  at  the 
“expiration  of  the  said  term  of  twenty  five  years,  the  said  cor- 
poration may  and  shall  continue  to  hold  the  same,  on  the  terms 
“of  this  act,  beyond  the  said  term,  and  until  the  same  shall  be 
“redeemed  and  paid  for  in  manner  herein  directed,” 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


21 


As  a general  observation  and  interpretation  of  this  clause,  we 
insert  an  extract  from  a report  of  the  building  committee,  31st 
January  1803.  “Our  stock  will  bear  a comparison  with  any 
“other,  either  in  point  of  security  or  duration.  It  is  secured  to 
“us  for  twenty  five  years  after  the  bridge  is  finished.  A period 
“long  enough  to  gain  a valuable  profit.  If  it  is  made  free,  com- 
pensation must  be  previously  made,  by  appraisement,  for  both 
“the  bridge  and  its  revenues.  A circumstance,  however  desir 
“able,  not  likely  to  happen.  The  Company  are  to  hold  the 
“bridge,  after  the  twenty  five  years,  until  they  are  amply  reim- 
bursed. The  duration  of  their  tenure  is  therefore  sufficient, 
“and  no  loss  of  capital  can  occur.  The  bridge  will  be  elevated 
“above  all  floods ; and  the  piers  and  abutments  of  such  strength 
“and  solidity,  as  to  place  it  out  of  all  danger.”  And  this  latter 
promise  of  that  committee  has,  it  is  confidently  believed,  been 
faithfully  complied  with. 

In  pursuance  of  this  law,  the  then  Governor,  ( Mifflin ) on  the 
27th  day  of  April  1798,  incorporated  the  Company;  the  num- 
ber of  subscriptions,  previously  required,  having  been  filled. 

The  Company  was  immediately  organized ; and  the  following 
named  persons  chosen  according  to  law. 

President , Richard  Peters. 

Directors , John  Perot,  William  Sheaff,  Joseph  Anthony,  John 
Dunlap,  John  Dorsey,  John  Miller,  M.  C.  Matthew 
M’Connell,  Robert  Ralston,  David  Evans,  junr. 
William  Bingham,  Samuel  Blodget,  Nathan  Sellers. 
Treasurer , Richard  Hill  Morris. 

The  first  Building  Committee  were 

Richard  Peters,  George  Fox,  William  Sheaff,  John  Dunlap, 
and  John  Kean. 

The  general  wish  of  the  Stockholders,  at  the  commencement 
of  the  project,  was  strongly  in  favour  of  a stone  bridge.  A draft 
of  a stone  structure,  elegant,  plain,  practicable  and  adapted  to 
the  site,  with  very  minute  and  important  instructions,  for  its 
execution,  was  furnished  to  the  President  gratuitously,  by 


22 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


William  Weston  Esq.  of  Gainsborough  in  England:  a 
very  able  and  scientific  hydraulic  engineer,  who  was  then  here, 
and  from  friendly  and  disinterested  motives,  most  liberally  con- 
tributed his  professional  knowledge  and  information,  to  promote 
the  success  of  the  Company.  The  foundations  of  the  present 
piers,  and  abutments  were  laid  nearly  according  to  his  plan, 
though  circumstances  compelled  a considerable  departure  from 
it,  as  the  work  advanced.  His  communications  were  attended 
to  with  great  advantage,  wheresoever  they  could  be  applied. 
Having  viewed  the  inefficiency  of  the  eastern  coffer  dam — in 
the  same  spirit  of  liberality,  he  furnished  to  the  President,  a 
draft  for  the  western  coffer  dam , before  his  departure  for  Eng- 
land. This  plan  was  original,  and  calculated  for  the  spot  on 
which  it  was  to  be  placed.  It  was  faithfully  and  exactly  exe- 
cuted under  the  care  of  Mr.  Samuel  Robinson,  who  was  then 
Superintendant  of  the  Company’s  work  in  wood.  Mr.  Weston 
foresaw  great  risques  and  difficulties,  arising  from  the  peculiar 
character  of  the  river,  and  the  nature  of  its  bottom,  in  so  great 
a depth  of  water.  He  declared,  that  he  should  hesitate  to  risque 
his  professional  character  on  the  event,  though  he  was  convinced 
that  the  whole  success  of  the  enterprise  depended  upon,  and 
required,  the  attempt.  Some  idea  of  its  magnitude  may  be  form- 
ed, when  it  is  known  that  800,000  feet  (board  measure)  of  tim- 
ber, were  employed  in  its  execution,  and  the  accommodations 
attached  to  it.  Sufficient  in  quantity  for  a ship  of  the  line. 

But  it  was  soon  discovered  that  the  expence  of  erecting  a 
stone  bridge,  would  far  exceed  any  sum,  the  revenue  likely  to ' 
be  produced  would  justify.  For  this  reason  alone,  no  farther 
progress  was  made  in  the  stone  bridge  plan.  And  though  some 
other  drafts,  among  them  a very  elegant  one  by  Mr.  Latrobe , 
were  presented,  the  board  of  Directors  were  under  the  necessity 
of  returning  them,  as  being  objects,  however  desirable,  too 
expensive  to  be  executed  with  private  funds.  It  was  therefore 
concluded  to  procure  plans  of  a bridge,  to  be  composed  of  stone 
piers  and  abutments,  and  a superstructure  of  either  wood  or  iron. 
Mr.  Weston  at  the  request  of  the  President  and  Directors,  sent 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


23 


from  England  (after  viewing  most  of  the  celebrated  bridges 
there,  and  adding  great  improvements  of  his  own,)  a draft  of 
an  iron  superstructure,  in  a very  superior  stile ; yet  with  his 
usual  attention  to  utility,  strength,  and  oeconomy,  accompanied 
by  models  and  instructions.  Although  highly  approved,  it  was 
not  deemed  prudent  to  attempt  its  execution.  All  our  work- 
men here,  are  unacquainted  with  such  operations ; and  it  was 
thought  too  hazardous  to  risque  the  first  experiment. 

The  castings  can  be  done  cheaper  here,  than  in  England,  and 
with  metal  of  a better  quality,  though  the  amount  of  the  erec- 
tion would  in  the  whole,  far  exceed  one  of  wood.  Mr.  Weston1  s 
draft  is  preserved,  and  may  yet  be  executed  in  some  part  of  the 
United  States  ; and  it  would  do  honour  to  those  who  could  ac- 
complish it.  Finally,  the  plan  so  successfully  perfected  was 
agreed  to ; having  been  furnished  by  Mr.  Timothy  Palmer  of 
Newburyport  in  Massachusetts , a self  taught  architect,  who  was 
employed  to  execute  the  work  of  the  frame.  He  brought  with 
him  Mr.  Carr,  as  his  second,  and  four  other  workmen  from  New 
England.  They  at  once  evinced  superior  intelligence  and  adroit- 
ness, in  a business,  which  was  found  to  be  a peculiar  art,  ac- 
quired by  habits  not  promptly  gained,  by  even  good  workmen 
in  other  branches  of  framing  in  wood.  Both  the  materials  and 
workmanship  of  this  frame,  are  allowed  to  be  remarkably  fault- 
less and  excellent.  It  is  also  an  evidence  of  prudence,  in  the 
President  and  Directors,  in  selecting  a plan  already  practised 
upon,  and  workmen  accustomed  to  its  execution. 

Previous  to  the  decision  upon  the  superstructure,  the  piers , 
without  a certainty  of  the  stability  whereof,  no  superstructure 
could  be  attempted,  were  begun ; with  the  intent,  that  when 
their  completion  was  ensured,  the  Stockholders  might  be  justi- 
fied, with  confidence  to  proceed  in  the  work.  There  being  no 
general  engineer,  the  President  and  Directors  were  under  the 
necessity  of  paying  more  attention,  than  is  usually  required  in 
such  cases.  The  President,  with  the  assistance  of  a building 
committee,  undertook  the  charge  of  the  execution  of  this  ardu- 


24 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


ous  work,  requiring  much  attention  as  well  in  the  outline  as  in 
its  most  minute  details. 

The  President  suggested,  with  the  approbation  of  the  com- 
mittee, important  parts  of  the  plans  of  the  masonry,  and  modes 
of  securing  the  dams ; and  several  improvements  in  the  plan  of 
the  frame,  which  were  adopted  by  Mr.  Palmer  ; and  occasioned 
a material  difference  from  those  in  New  England , and  elsewhere, 
erected  on  similar  principles. 

The  President’s  proposition  and  general  design  of  the  cover, 
were  approved,  and  reported,  by  the  committee.  The  opinions 
of  a very  great  proportion  of  the  Stockholders  were  at  first  op- 
posed to  this  measure ; though  when  perfectly  understood,  it 
was  unanimously  agreed  to.  Its  novelty  excited  doubts  and 
apprehensions,  which  time,  and  many  violent  assaults  from 
storms,. have  proved  to  have  been  groundless.  It  will  long  re- 
main an  example  for  future  similar  undertakings ; and  is  the 
only  covered  wooden  bridge  in  the  world,  a much  inferior  one 
over  the  Limmat , in  the  north  of  Europe , excepted. 

Mr.  Adam  Traquair  has  merit  in  the  draft  of  the  cover,  which 
he  assisted  to  delineate.  It  was  executed  with  singular  fidelity 
and  credit,  by  Mr.  Owen  Biddle , an  ingenious  carpenter  and 
architect  of  Philadelphia ; who  made  additions  to  the  design. 
He  has  published  an  architectural  work,  entitled  “The  Young 
Carpenter’s  Assistant;”  useful  as  an  elementary  guide,  and 
which  should  be  encouraged  as  an  American  production.  In  it 
will  be  seen  a plate  of  this  bridge,  and  a concise  account  of  it ; 
some  parts  whereof  are  herein  repeated. 

The  whole  of  the  masonry  was  performed  by  Mr.  Thomas 
Vickers , who  possesses  not  only  integrity  and  practical  skill,  but 
is  firm,  constant,  and  prudently  bold,  in  hazardous  undertakings. 
His  exertions  were  conspicuous  on  every  emergency  and  casu- 
alty attending  the  dams,  and  other  dangerous  and  difficult  parts 
of  the  work. 

Those  who  with  the  President,  composed  the  building  com- 
mittee particularly,  as  well  as  the  other  members  of  the  board, 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


25 


and  the  Treasurer,  meritoriously  afforded  every  requisite  assist- 
ance ; as  well  when  their  aid  was  necessary  in  the  executive 
business,  as  in  a laudable  attention  to  its  pecuniary  affairs.  It 
always  happens  in  such  associations,  that  some  pay  more  atten- 
tion, and  thereby  gain  and  apply  more  useful  intelligence  than 
others. 

It  would  be  unpardonable,  not  to  mention  the  Stockholders , 
with  high  approbation.  Their  advances  have  been  great,  and 
their  patience  under  privations  of  profit,  truly  commendable. 
The  amount  of  expenditures  is  nearly  $300,000,  though  the 
dividends  will  be  made  on  a much  less  sum,  (about  $218,000) 
owing  to  the  application  of  the  floating  bridge  tolls,  to  the  ex- 
pence of  the  building.  The  company  have  evidenced  a praise- 
worthy ‘mixture  of  public  spirit,  with  a justifiable  desire  of 
pecuniary  advantages  ; in  which  it  is  to  be  ardently  wished,  they 
will  not  be  disappointed.  Although  these  advantages  may  be 
delayed,  they  are  ultimately  secured.  Hot  the  least  gratifying, 
must  be  the  satisfaction  arising  from  the  accomplishment  of  a 
public  improvement  eminently  beneficial,  as  well  in  its  use  as 
its  example,  not  only  to  those,  who  now  enjoy  its  accommoda- 
tion, but  to  posterity. 

Common  justice  to  the  subject  has  compelled  so  detailed  an 
account  of  this  undertaking.  Actuated  by  no  motives  of  mere 
personal  compliment,  it  is  deemed  of  public  utility  to  record  for 
imitation,  individual  exertions,  in  cases  wherein  great  objects 
have  been  accomplished  by  them,  without  any  assistance  from 
the  public  funds ; and  where  the  want  of  scientific  and  practical 
knowledge,  was  supplied  by  the  constancy  and  singular  atten- 
tion of  those,  who  possessed  no  more  talents  or  acquirements, 
than  are  called  for  in  the  common  affairs  of  life.  Such  success- 
ful examples  are  worthy  of  imitation  ; and  will  incite  to  perse- 
verance, in  laudable  and  necessary  enterprizes ; however  appar- 
ently difficult  and  untoward ; as  many  parts  of  this  work  have 
most  undoubtedly  been.  Nor  is  it  desired  to  recommend  pro- 
ceeding (where  it  can  be  avoided)  in  such  hazardous  under- 


26 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


takings,  without  professional  engineers,  both  scientific  and 
practical. 

Few  would  have  persevered  under  all  the  difficulties  attend- 
ing this  work ; which  in  its  execution  (unavoidably  protracted 
by  the  embarrassments  attendant  on  building  under  water)  oc- 
cupied six  years  after  the  law  was  obtained.  However  humble 
the  merit  of  those  who  engage  in  such  undertakings  may  be 
considered,  they  are  far  greater  contributors  to  the  happiness 
and  convenience  of  mankind,  than  those  who,  with  victories 
and  triumphs,  dazzle  while  they  desolate,  and  ruin  and  oppress 
the  human  race. 


DESCRIPTION  OF  THE  BRIDGE. 

0 

The  masonry  is  executed  on  a plan  suggested  to  the  mason, 
uncommon,  if  not  new.  The  walls  of  the  abutments  and  wings, 
are  perpendicular,  without  buttresses , and  supported  by  interior 
offsets.  These  are  found  completely  competent  to  support  the 
pressure  of  the  filling  (which  gravitates  in  perpendicular  lines) 
without  battering  or  contreforts.  The  abutments  are  18  feet  thick. 

The  wing  walls  nine  feet  at  the  foundations,  retiring  by  off- 
sets, till  at  the  parapets,  they  are  only  18  inches.  The  eastern 
abutment  and  wing  walls  are  founded  on  a rock.  Those  on 
the  western  side  are  built  on  piles.  The  inclined  plane  of  ap- 
proach to  the  bridge,  is  elevated  at  an  angle  of  3 1-2  degrees. 

Although  the  western  pier  has  attracted  most  attention,  that 
on  the  eastern  side  of  the  river,  was  first  erected ; and  was 
attended  with  difficulties  appearing  often  insurmountable.  It 
is  from  21  to  24  feet  deep,  below  the  tide,  to  the  rock,  on  which 
the  lower  course  is  laid  and  bolted.  The  coffer  dam  was  on  a 
bad  plan,  though  constructed  as  well  as  that  plan  admitted.  Its 
materials  were  too  slight  and  incompetent.  Constant  exertion, 
and  repeated  remedies  for  defects,  were  incessantly  called  for  by 
frequent  accidents.  Every  thing  was  new  to  all  employed  ; but 
it  was  a school  to  teach  experience.  The  footing  of  the  piles 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


27 


was  secured,  and  the  dam  saved  from  impending  destruction,  by 
an  embankment  of  stone  and  sand,  thrown  around  the  bottom 
on  its  outside ; and  the  latter  washed  in,  and  consolidated  by 
the  current.  The  same  means  were  used  at  the  western  dam , 
and  their  utility  decidedly  proved.  Both  piers  are  of  course, 
similar  in  their  general  configuration  and  composition.  The 
first  stone  of  the  eastern  pier , was  laid  September  5th,  1801. 
That  of  the  western  pier,  December  25th,  1802.  The  time  pre- 
ceding was  occupied  in  procuring  plans,  gaining  information, 
and  providing  materials.  These  precautions,  (always  essential 
in  great  undertakings'  forwarded  the  work,  and  ensured  against 
delay  and  disappointment. 

The  frame  is  a masterly  piece  of  workmanship  ; combining  in 
its  principles,  that  of  king  posts  and  braces,  or  trusses , with  those 
of  a stone  arch.  Half  of  each  post  with  the  brace  between  them, 
will  form  the  vousseur  of  an  arch  ; and  lines  through  the  middle 
of  each  post,  would  describe  the  radii  or  joints.  There  are 
three  sections  of  the  frame,  all  similar.  That  in  the  middle, 
divides  the  space  into  two  equal  parts,  so  that  passengers  in  op- 
posite directions,  are  prevented  from  interfering  with  each 
other. 

Th q platform  for  travelling  rises  only  eight  feet  from  an  hor- 
izontal line,  and  the  top,  or  cap  pieces,  are  parallel  to  this.  Of 
the  sections,  the  middle  one  has  the  most  pressure,  owing  to  the 
weight  of  transportation,  being  thrown  nearer  to  that  section 
than  towards  the  sides  ; to  which  the  foot  ways  prevent  its  ap- 
proach.— These  foot  ways  are  five  feet  in  width,  elevated  above 
the  carriage  ways,  and  neatly  protected  with  turned  posts  and 
chains.  It  has  been  conceived  that  the  foot  ways  would  have 
been  more  advantageously  placed  on  each  side  the  middle  sec- 
tion, to  throw  the  weight  of  transportation  to  the  sides  of  the 
bridge. 

Mr.  Palmer  (who  is  believed  to  be  the  original  inventor  of 
this  kind  of  wooden  bridges)  permitted  with  much  candour, 
considerable  alterations  in  the  plan,  accommodatory  to  the  in- 
tended cover,  the  design  whereof  is.  original.  These  were  so 


28 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


much  approved  by  him,  that  he  considers  the  Schuylkill  bridge 
superstructure  the  most  perfect  of  any  he  has  built.  It  was 
finished  in  one  season  ; and  declared  open  for  passengers  and 
transportation,  on  the  1st  day  of  January,  1805. 

The  Shauffhausen  bridge  (which  is  now  destroyed)  much 
eulogised  in  Europe,  was  by  no  means  equal  to  that  on  the 
Schuylkill.  Any  candid  and  intelligent  architect,  on  inspecting 
the  drafts  of  the  one,  examining  the  other  and  the  principles  of 
both,  would  give  a decided  preference  to  the  latter.  The  design 
of  this  is  more  simple,  its  strength  is  greater,  its  parts  are  better 
combined,  and  more  assistant  to  each  other:  and  there  is  no  use- 
less timber,  in  any  part. 

The  timber  of  which  both  the  frame  and  the  cover  are  com- 
posed, (the  roof,  of  cedar  excepted)  is  of  the  best  white  pine. 

The  flooring  of  the  platform  is  doubled,  and  in  the  whole  5 1-2 
inches  thick.  The  under  course  of  white  pine , 8 inches  thick, 
is  permanent,  and  well  spiked  and  secured.  The  upper  course 
is  of  sap  pitch  pine,  slightly  attached  (2  1-2  inches  thick)  to  be 
renewed  as  often  as  worn  either  partially  or  generally,  and  with 
this  the  joints  are  broken.  This  mode  of  planking  has  been 
found,  on  the  floating  bridges,  highly  advantageous  and  econom- 
ical. The  under  course  admits  of  two  or  three  removals  of  the 
upper,  which  wears  before  it  decays.  The  floorings  of  wooden 
bridges  are  generally  of  single  planks. 

The  exterior  of  the  cover  is  handsomely  ornamented  and  paint 
ed.  The  under  work  imitative  of  stone,  is  well  executed,  by 
dashing  the  paint  while  fresh,  with  sand  and  stone  dust.  This 
is  performed  with  so  much  ease  and  cheapness,  that  it  is  hoped 
it  will  introduce  a like  mode  of  ornamenting  and  protecting  the 
surface  of  other  wooden  elevations.  All  apprehensions  of  scal- 
ing by  frost,  are  proved  to  be  imaginary. 

A number  of  Conductors,  properly  disposed,  secure  the  super- 
structure from  danger  by  lightning. 

All  that  could  be  spared  for  ornament,  was  expended  on  the 
exterior ; as  the  interior  neither  admitted  nor  required  it.  The 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


29 


Pediments  of  the  entrances  were  intended  to  be  finished  with 
Emblems  of  Commerce , on  the  east ; and  of  Agriculture , on  the 
west.  They  are  designed,  and  were  to  be  executed,  by  that 
eminent  American  naval  sculptor,  William  Rush  of  Philadel- 
phia ; whose  works  as  an  artist,  are  admired,  in  whatever  part 
of  the  world  they  are  seen.  It  is  desirable  that  this  finish , the 
expence  whereof  will  be  small,  should  yet  be  added.  The 
Pediments  require  it;  to  complete  the  design. 

GENERAL  OBSERVATIONS. 

The  Schuylkill  Bridge  Plan  may  be  varied  according  to  cir- 
cumstances ; and  its  principles  preserved.  In  whatever  varieties, 
projectors  of  other  designs  may  indulge  themselves,  it  is  confi- 
dently believed  that  Mr.  Palmer's  plan  will  be  found  on  long 
experience,  to  be  the  best.  It  is  an  unit  in  symmetry  and  move- 
ment ; and  all  its  parts  support  each  other,  like  a phalanx  in 
tacticks.  In  some  instances  Mr.  Palmer  has  placed  the  platform 
for  travelling,  over  the  cap  pieces  and  cross  ties  ; or  rather  these 
latter  become  part  of  the  frame  of  the  platform.  The  great  body 
of  the  frame  is  of  course  below.  But  this  was  not  found  eligible, 
where  ice  and  floods  were  likely  to  assault  the  haunches,  when 
the  frame  was  thus  depressed.  The  elevation  of  the  abutments 
would  require,  for  this  plan,  immense  weight  and  expence  of 
filling,  and  expose  the  walls  to  dangerous  pressure.  Nor  would 
it  be  so  well  calculated  for  heavy  transportation. — More  im- 
portant than  all — it  would  be  unfit  for  covering  to  such  advan- 
tage. Notwithstanding  this  great  improvement,  was  highly 
approved  by  Mr.  Palmer  it  was  not  in  his  contemplation,  as  to 
mode)  until  the  outline  of  the  present  cover  was  shewn  to  him  ; 
although  he  said  he  had  repeatedly,  but  fruitlessly,  urged  the 
measure  of  covering  their  bridges,  in  New  England.  It  is  hoped 
this  example  will  be  followed,  in  all  pontifical  wooden  structures 
of  magnitude,  hereafter.  Bridges  may,  for  most  situations,  be 
less  expensive  in  the  frame ; the  middle  section  may  be  omitted 
above  the  flooring ; nor  need  they  be  more  than  30  feet  wide. 


30 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


This  width  was  deemed  sufficient  by  Mr.  Weston,  for  bridges  in 
general ; though  he  considered  that  over  the  Schuylkill  to  re- 
quire more  than  common  space,  for  its  constant  and  burthensome 
transportation.  The  Easton  bridge,  built  under  Mr.  Palmer's 
directions,  is  28  feet  wide ; and  the  frame  of  the  middle  section 
does  not  rise  above  the  platform.  Its  situation  does  not  demand 
a plan,  or  call  for  dimensions,  on  a greater  scale ; and  it  is 
erected  according  to  the  improved  work  of  the  frame  of  the 
Schuylkill  bridge. 

Although  the  cover  of  the  Schuylkill  bridge  compelled  orna- 
ment, and  some  elegance  of  design,  lest  it  should  disgrace  the 
environs  of  a great  City ; these  would  not  be  necessary  in  such 
a degree,  in  other  situations.  Neatness  of  elevation  and  taste 
in  design,  may  be  shewn  at  a small  expence  ; and  the  workman- 
ship and  materials  need  be  no  more  costly,  than  those  for  roof- 
ing and  weather  boarding  common  frame  buildings.  The  Schuyl- 
kill bridge  roof  required  one  hundred  and  ten  thousand  shingles, 
of  3 feet  long  and  6 inches  wide ; and  other  materials  in  pro- 
portion. Much  of  these  may  be  saved,  in  narrower  frames. 
The  painting  or  coating,  with  the  durable  composition,  in  imita 
tion  of  stone,  which  appears  on  the  exterior  of  the  work,  below 
the  platform,  (for  which  a recipe  is  subjoined)  may  be  done  at 
a small  expence.  Mineral  paints  are  the  worst,  for  coating 
exposed  to  weather.  The  oil  does  not  combine  with  the  min- 
eral, as  it  does  with  absorbent  earths : and  being  extracted  by 
the  sun,  leaves  the  mineral  particles  without  adhesion,  and  they 
drop,  or  are  washed  away  by  rains,  dews,  and  moisture.  All 
oils  or  fats,  are  known,  chemically , to  be  alike  composed ; and 
are  better  or  worse,  as  they  are  or  are  not  mixed  with  foreign 
matter.  Linseed  oil  may  be  had  every  where,  and  fish  oil  is 
common.  Ochres  for  colouring,  (far  preferable  to  minerals)  abound 
throughout  the  country;  and  only  require  judicious  exploration 
for  their  discovery,  Clarified  turpentine  is  a good  substitute 
for  oils ; but  a mixture  of  both  is  best.  The  less  forcing , to  ac- 
celerate drying,  the  better.  Though  inconvenient  in  some 
respects,  the  composition  will  be  more  durable,  the  longer  it  is 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


31 


in  drying ; but  care  should  be  taken,  that  it  be  not  so  thin  as  to 
run ; or  not  retain  the  sand  and  paint.  Sea  sand , or  earth  mixed 
with  marine  salt,  should  be  avoided,  as  being  hostile  to  com- 
positions or  cements ; and  particularly  when  calcareous  sub- 
stances are  combined.  Some  of  the  Delaware  stone  cutters 
sand,  used  with  the  Schuylkill  bridge  coating,  was  found  to  be 
liable  to  this  objection.  We  have  daily  before  us  proofs  of  this 
fact  in  our  plaistering  ; where  the  hair  of  salt  hides  is  used. 
Every  moisture  of  the  room,  or  atmosphere,  brings  out  stains 
and  damp  spots  on  our  walls  ; to  which  papering  will  not  adhere, 
as  it  does  on  other  plaistering,  into  the  composition  whereof, 
salt  hair  does  not  enter.  Chemists  may  account  for  this : but  to 
them  it  is  not  yet  clearly  ascertained,  from  whence  the  muriatic 
acid  is  derived ; nor  are  its  nature,  and  properties,  accurately 
known.  Long  and  frequent  experience  has  evinced,  that  the 
least  mixture  of  this  acid,  or  common  salt,*  with  gypsum , pro- 
duces a tertium)  which  renders  it  unfit  for  a cement ; and  also 
destroys  its  agricultural  uses  and  properties. 

RECIPE  FOR  COMPOSITION  TO  IMITATE  STONE. 

The  work  should  not  be  primed ; though  part  of  that  at  the 
bridge  was  so  done,  before  it  was  determined  to  coat  it  with 
composition. 

The  paint  used  was  common  white  lead  and  oil ; as  the  pain- 
ters preferred  their  own  way,  and  the  scaffolding  could  not  re- 
main at  risque,  while  experiments  on  other  paints  were  tried. 
It  was  conceded  afterwards,  that  if  there  had  been  time  to  pre- 
pare and  use  other  paint,  and  the  urgency  of  dispatch  had  not 

* Common  salt  is  compounded  of  the  muriatic  acid , and  soda.  The  lat- 
ter substance  abounds  in  the  ocean,  and  other  places,  where  common  salt 
is  found.  The  vitriolic  acid  of  gypsum  meeting  with  the  muriatic , in 
the  salt,  expels  it  from  the  soda  of  the  salt ; and  having  a predominant 
affinity,  forms  sulphate  of  soday  or  glauber  salts.  Good  common  salt 
should  contain  two  thirds  of  soday  and  one  third  of  muriatic  acid ; and  is 
seldom  pure  in  its  combination,  as  to  proportion  ; or  absence  of  foreign 
matter. 


32 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


precluded  delay  for  drying,  fish  oil  and  clarified  turpentine  with 
ochres , would  have  been  more  eligible. 

As  fast  as  the  painter  proceeded  in  his  work,  an  adroit  hand 
dashed  on  the  sand  and  stone  dust.  This  was  mixed  in  proper 
proportions,  as  to  colour  and  consistency*  which  is  only  to  be 
known  by  preparatory  experiments ; easily  accomplished.  It 
was  thrown  on  with  a common  tin  dust  pan.  The  sand  and 
stone  dust  must  be  free  from  moisture,  or  any  tincture  from 
marine  salt.  It  was  dried  in  the  sun,  or  a large  iron  kettle  over 
a slow  fire.  A small  proportion  of  plaister  of  Paris , was  mixed 
with  the  sand  and  stone  dust.  A long  trough  containing  the 
sand  and  dust,  was  placed  under  the  work ; and  caught  what 
did  not  adhere,  so  as  to  be  thrown  up  again  and  prevent  waste. 
The  dispatch  with  which  this  operation  can  be  performed, 
exceeded  expectation,  both  as  to  facility  and  oeconomy.  With 
marble  dust , it  may  be  made  to  imitate  that  stone.  As  soon  as 
one  coat  is  dry,  the  other  must  be  laid  on.  Two  coats,  well 
attended  to,  are  sufficient.  But  this  is  left  to  the  choice  of  those, 
who  think  another  coat  is  required. 

The  joints  are  imitated  by  convex  strips,  sprigged  on  the 
weather  boarding ; and  after  the  coating  is  put  on,  they  are 
penciled  off,  with  white  paint. 

The  following  is  a recipe  much  followed,  and  with  invariable 
success,  for  barns  and  other  buildings,  in  the  country  ; and  being 
particularly  applied  to  roofs,  it  is  called  “fire  proof” 

Take  20  gallons  of  fish  oil ; boil  it  4 hours  over  a ^slow  fire  ; 
and  skim  it  as  the  feculence  rises.  Put  in  it  12  pounds  of  rosin, 
or  an  equivalent  proportion  of  clarified  turpentine.  Before 
taking  it  off  the  fire,  mix  ten  gallons  flax  seed  oil,  boiled  in  the 
common  way.  Grind  and  mix  with  the  oil,  a sufficient  quantity 
of  ochre  (of  what  colour  you  please)  to  make  the  paint  thick  as 
can  be  well  brushed  on.  As  you  brush  on  the  paint,  have  your 
composition  ready  to  sift,  or  dash  on.  It  is  thus  made. — 

Take  one  bushel  of  ground  plaister,  calcined  over  a fire  in  a 
dry  pot,  or  kettle.  When  cold,  mix  with  it  3 bushels  of  stone 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


38 


dust  or  fine  sand,  dry , and  the  more  gritty  or  siliceous,  the  better. 
Sift  or  dash  on,  as  fast  as  the  paint  is  laid  on.  When  dry,  the 
second  coat  is  applied  in  the  same  manner.  Live  coals,  in 
quantities,  have  been  thrown  on  roofs  thus  coated,  without  in- 
jury. It  does  not  scale  with  frost,  or  melt  with  the  hottest  sun. 
The  above  is  sufficient  for  a large  roof. 

The  whole  expence  of  the  preceding  composition  including 
labour  and  laying  on  will  not  exceed  $50. 


Length  of  the  bridge, 

Abutments  and  wing  walls, 

Total  length, 

Span  of  small  arches 

(three  in  the  whole  number, 
including  middle  arch.) 

* Ditto  of  middle  arch, 

Width  of  the  bridge, 

Curvature  of  the  middle  arch, 
ditto  of  small  arches  - 
Rise  of  the  carriage  way 
Height  in  the  clear  over  carriage 
way  - 

ditto  from  surface  of  the  river 
to  the  carriage  way, 


Feet. 

in. 

550 

750 

1300 

150 

194 

10 

42 

12 1 

1 The  curvatures  are 

10 1 

1 catenarian. 

8 


13 

31 


*The  middle  arch  was  originally  intended  to  be  only  160  feet,  but 
the  dam  could  not  be  placed  on  the  spot  contemplated,  owing  to  the 
bareness  and  inequalities  of  the  rock  at  the  bottom. 

It  is  highly  creditable  to  those  concerned  in  the  direction  and  execu- 
tive branches  of  this  work,  that  no  delay  ever  occurred  through  want  of 
supplies,  or  prompt  payment.  Yet  one  million  and  an  half  of  feet  (board 
measure)  of  timber,  and  above  22000  perches  of  stone,  with  all  the  sub- 
ordinate and  auxiliary  materials  required,  were  employed  in  this  struc- 
ture. The  labour,  the  cost  whereof  was  a great  proportion  of  the  expen- 
diture, was  obtained  below  the  common  rate,  in  most  instances  ; owing 
to  the  regularity  and  certainty  of  payment. 


34 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


Feet. 

Depth  of  water  to  the  rock  at  the 

western  pier  41 

ditto  at  the  eastern  pier  - 21  to  24 

Amount  of  toll  when  the  work  began  for  1799,  - $5000 

Present  rate,  (1805.) 13000 

The  company  have  established  commodious  wharves,  which 
were  necessary  for  the  safety  of  the  abutments  ; and  add  greatly 
to  the  improvements  of  that  front  of  the  city. 


President  and  Directors  at  the  close  of  the  Work. 
President . Richard  Peters. 

Directors  John  Dunlap,  John  Perot,  Ebenezer  Hazard,  Thomas 
Savery,  William  Poyntel,  Charles  Biddle,  Richard 
H.  Morris,  George  Fox,  Peter  Browne,  John  G. 
Wachsmuth,  George  Reinhold,  Anthony  Cuthbert. 
Treasurer.  John  Dorsey. 

Building  Committee.  Richard  Peters,  William  Poyntel,  Anthony 
Cuthbert,  John  Dunlap,  Peter  Browne, 
George  Fox. 


This  account  ought  not  to  be  closed  without  presenting  for  informa- 
tion , as  well  as  to  gratify  curiosity , part  of  the  report  of  the 
building  committee , dated  July  14 th  1803.  Bigned.  Richard 
Peters , John  Dunlap , Peter  Browne , George  Fox , Anthony 
Cuthbert. 

“ That  it  was  thought  proper  to  begin  the  work  of  this  season 
on  the  eastern  side,  by  laying  the  foundation  of  the  abutment, 
and  raising  the  eastern  pier  to  the  height  required  for  the  first 
timbers  of  the  wooden  superstructure ; so  that  the  whole  of  the 
wood  work  will  be  elevated  above  all  floods  and  substances 
which  might  injure  it  when  floating  on  and  carried  with  violence 
by  high  freshes.  The  highest  fresh  ever  known  having  risen 
12  feet  8 inches  above  high  water  mark,  we  have  elevated  the 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


35 


masonry  16  feet  8 inches  above  high  tide ; to  guard  against  all 
danger.  From  five  feet  above  the  proposed  spring  of  the  arches 
of  a stone  bridge,  where  our  cut  stone  ceases,  we  directed  it  to 
be  carried  up  in  range  work,  with  hammered  stone,  as  a facing ; 
and  the  interior  bonded  with  large,  long  and  heavy  stone,  except 
at  the  end  of  the  pier,  up  stream,  where  the  cut  stone  is  contin- 
ued as  high  as  any  floating  ice  will  probably  assail  it.  The 
whole  of  the  work  is  well  filled,  laid  in  common  mortar  and 
grouted,  so  as  to  compose  a solid  mass,  capable  of  resisting  the 
most  severe  assault  from  ice,  floods  or  floating  timber.  The 
terras  mortar  and  clamping,  cease  with  the  cut  stone,  about  five 
feet  above  high  water  mark.” 

“ When  this  pier  arrived  at  its  present  height,  the  masonry  of 
the  eastern  abutment  was  proceeded  in  ; and  so  far  completed, 
as  to  be  out  of  all  difficulty.  We  then  directed  the  workmen  to 
commence  the  raising  the  western  pier.  This  had  been  carried 
up,  last  winter,  within  eighteen  inches  of  low  water  mark.  The 
dam  having  stood  the  winter  without  much  injury,  though 
roughly  treated  by  the  ice,  was  pumped  out  on  the  27th  day  of 
May  last.  On  examining  the  masonry  with  much  attention  we 
found  to  our  great  satisfaction,  that  there  had  not  been  the  least 
alteration  in  the  work  by  any  accident.  It  had  not  settled  an 
hair’s  breadth  ; but  stood  firm  on  its  foundation,  which  we  can 
now  pronounce  perfectly  good,  sound,  and  immoveable.  We 
were  agreeably  struck  with  the  perfect  state  of  the  whole  mason- 
ry ; which  does  great  credit  to  Mr.  Vickers  the  master  mason. 
The  tarras  mortar  used  on  the  exterior  is  as  hard  as  the  stone  ; 
and  the  common  mortar  of  the  interior,  as  dry  and  indurated, 
though  covered  with  water  four  months,  as  any  cement,  exposed 
in  masonry  to  the  open  air  for  twelve  months.” 

“We  mention  for  the  instruction  of  those  who  may  have  oc- 
casion to  build  where  water  covers  or  flows  round  the  work, 
that  rich  mortar  should  never  be  used.  Our  common  cement  is 
composed  of  three  parts  sharp,  clean,  coarse  sand,  and  one  part 
lime.  Sand  is  thrown  into  a bed  of  tbin  wash  of  slacked  lime, 
and  agitated  till  every  grain  is  coated  with  lime,  it  then  receives 


36 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


additions  of  sand  till  brought  to  its  proper  consistency  for  use. 
The  grout  is  fluid,  but  composed  of  the  like  proportion  of  ma- 
terials. The  mortar  used  in  the  foundation  once  intended  for  a 
pier,  near  the  eastern  toll  house,  but  abandoned  as  a pier,  and 
now  usefully  employed,  as  the  end  of  our  wing  walls,  was  cov- 
ered more  than  a year  with  water.  We  had  occasion  to  take 
part  of  it  up.  The  mortar,  having  been  improperly  made  rich, 
was  friable,  and  had  not  the  least  tenacity  or  binding  quality. 
The  tarras  mortar  is  composed  of  one  part  tarras,  two  parts 
lime  and  three  parts  sand.” 

“ The  western  pier  is  now  completed  to  the  same  height,  and, 
except  in  depth,  of  the  same  dimensions  with  the  eastern  pier. 
The  span  between  these  piers  is  187  feet  6 inches,  from  the  piers 
to  each  abutment  the  span  will  be  150  feet  each.  No  formidable 
difficulties  have  occurred  in  the  work  of  the  present  season  ; and 
every  thing  has  been  conducted  to  our  satisfaction.” 

“ We  think  it  proper  to  give  a short  description  of  this  pier 
(the  greater  proportion  whereof  is  invisible)  that  its  structure 
may  be  known ; and  its  embarrassing,  expensive  and  tedious 
progress  may  be  accounted  for.  We  confine  ourselves  to  the 
masonry — a description  of  the  dam  will  be  hereafter  presented 
that  it  may  be  of  service  to  others  who  may  have  occasion  to 
use  such  auxiliaries,  in  aquatic  structures.  The  plan  of  the  dam, 
and  instructions  for  its  establishment,  do  much  honor  to  Mr. 
Weston  who  furnished  them.  Mr.  Robinson  our  superintendant, 
has  great  merit  in  faithfully  executing  this  plan.  But  many 
dangerous  casualties  and  nnforseen  embarrassments  baffled  all 
previous  arrangements ; and  required  the  immediate  and  un- 
ceasing efforts  of  the  committee  and  the  workmen  to  combat 
them.  The  members  of  the  Board,  and  others  of  our  fellow 
citizens,  who  voluntarily  as  fisted  us  in  endeavours  to  evacuate 
the  dam  of  the  obstructions  which  prevented  our  totally  baring  , 
the  rock,  have  our  thanks  for  their  exertions.  These  have  af- 
forded conviction  that  the  plan  we  adopted  for  the  foundation, 
was  indispensable.  The  result  has  undeniably  proved  its  efficacy, 
competency  and  permanence ; and  leaves  no  doubt  of  its  being 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


37 


in  contact  with  the  rock ; which  though  somewhat  irregular, 
rises  at  the  interior  circumference  of  our  dam  and  forms  in  the 
middle  a tolerably  regular  cavity,  well  calculated  to  prevent  (if 
the  weight  on  it  were  not  sufficient)  any  injury  to,  or  move- 
ment of  the  foundation.” 


DESCRIPTION  OF  THE  PIER. 

“ Not  being  able  to  arrive  nearer  to  the  rock  than  three  feet 
six  inches,  without  the  most  imminent  danger  of  ruin,  and  fail- 
ure in  our  object,  it  was  deemed  (after  every  effort  to  evacuate 
the  dam  had  been  tried)  most  adviseable,  and  dictated  by  evident 
necessity  to  lay  a rough  foundation,  before  the  masonry  of  cut 
stone  commenced,  about  eight  feet  below  the  common  bed  of  the 
river.  This  foundation  was  accordingly  directed  by  the  build- 
ing committee  ; and  on  the  25th  of  December  1802  began  to  be 
formed.  It  consists  of  large  foundation  and  smaller  stone  inter- 
mixed. Roach  lime  and  sharp  sand  cover  and  fill  the  interstices 
of  each  layer  of  these  stone ; which  are  all  well  rammed  ; and, 
reaching  the  rock,  compose  a solid  mass,  four  feet  thick,  filling 
the  whole  interior  of  the  dam  ; the  area  whereof  is  42  feet  six 
inches  in  breadth,  by  92  feet  in  length.  On  this  foundation,  the 
cut  stone  was  laid,  and  the  pier  shaped  to  its  proper  dimensions ; 
which  are  here  30  feet  in  breadth,  by  71  feet  6 inches  in  its  ex- 
treme length  ; the  ends  being  semicircular.  It  continues  of  these 
dimensions  to  the  first  offset,  about  four  feet  from  the  foundation. 
— There  are  six  offsets  to  low  water  mark  ; each  diminishing  the 
pier  about  four  inches ; so  that  at  that  point  it  is  twenty  six  feet 
eight  inches  in  breadth  and  sixty  seven  feet  two  inches  in  length. 
There  are  from  this  point,  to  18  inches  above  high  water  mark, 
three  offsets,  each  diminishing  the  pier  10  inches.  So  that  the 
dimensions,  at  this  point,  are  twenty  one  feet  eight  inches  in 
breadth,  and  sixty  three  feet  two  inches  in  length  ; the  whole 
continuing  semicircular  at  the  ends.  From  this  point  the  pier 
begins  to  batter  and  the  cut  stone  ceases.  The  hammered  stone, 
in  range  work,  begins,  and  rising  sixteen  feet,  lessens  regularly 


38 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


to  nineteen  feet  four  inches  in  width,  and  in  length  sixty  feet 
ten  inches.  When  finished  it  will  be  in  height  fifty  five  feet 
nine  inches  from  the  rock,  and  will  be  neatly  surmounted  with 
cut  stone,  at  each  end,  formed  in  the  shape  of  a half  dome.  The 
cut  stone  are  all  clamped  at  every  joint,  with  iron  clamps,  well 
secured.  The  outer  ashlers  are  all  laid  in  tarras  mortar.  There 
are  a proper  number  of  headers,  dove-tailed  in  each  course  ; run- 
ning into  the  pier  many  feet.  On  these  are  laid  vast  rough 
stone,  some  whereof  are  twelve  tons  in  weight. — These  large 
stones  of  various  sizes,  are  common  in  the  interior  of  the  pier, 
which  is  laid  in  a workmanlike  manner,  in  common  mortar,  and 
properly  filled  with  smaller  stone  ; the  whole  being  grouted  and 
forming  a solid  mass.  Six  large  and  heavy  chains,  are  worked 
into  the  masonry,  crosswise  of  the  pier,  at  the  foundation  ; and  a 
large  curb  of  timber,  hooped  with  iron,  surrounds  the  cut  stone 
at  this  point.  Fifteen  other  massive  chains,  fastened  at  proper 
places,  with  perpendicular  bolts,  well  wedged,  are  dispersed  in 
various  parts  of  the  pier,  crosswise  thereof,  as  high  as  low  water 
mark.  The  whole  masonry  of  the  pier,  was  performed  (includ- 
ing the  winter  work  with  all  its  disadvantages)  in  seventy  four 
working  days,  after  we  had  been  seven  months  preparing  and 
fixing  the  dam.  Two  months  of  this  period  were  employed  in 
incessant  pumping,  clearing  and  combatting  casualties  and  im- 
pediments the  most  embarrassing  and  expensive.  The  courses 
of  cut  stone  vary  in  depth,  the  least  course  being  ten  inches, 
and  the  largest  two  feet  eight  inches  in  depth.” 

“The  foundation  is  further  secured  by  the  embankment  of 
stone,  intermixed  and  embodied  with  sand,  thrown  around  the 
dam,  on  the  bed  of  the  river,  to  the  height  of  fourteen  feet.  The 
interior  piling  will  be  cut  off  below  low  water  mark,  and  connect- 
ed with  the  pier  by  chains.  Building  stone  are  thrown  in,  be- 
tween this  piling  and  the  masonry,  about  ten  feet  high,  the  whole 
forming  a strong  barrier  against  any  attacks  on  the  foundation.” 

“ Had  we  foreseen  that  so  many  casualties,  difficulties,  and 
dangers  would  have  attended  our  enterprise,  we  should  probably 
not  have  hazarded  the  undertaking.” 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


“We  were  convinced  that  the  whole  of  our  success  depended 
on  compleating  this  pier ; and  persevered  against  casualties  and 
impediments,  which  frequently  appeared  insurmountable.  It  is 
at  length  accomplished,  and  the  completion  of  our  whole  work 
thereby  ensured.  We  mention,  not  as  it  respects  ourselves,  but 
for  the  emulation  and  encouragement  of  others,  who  may  be 
obliged  to  encounter  similar  circumstances,  that  by  perseverance, 
we  have  prevailed  over  the  most  discouraging  obstacles.  A pier 
of  solid  masonry,  having  7250  tons  on  its  foundation,  which  is 
twenty  nine  feet  below  low  water  mark,  and  at  high  tide,  38  to 
40  feet  deep,  was  began  on  Christmas  day,  in  a severe  winter,  in 
a depth  of  water  uncommonly  forbidding,  and  in  forty  days  car- 
ried up  from  necessity,  during  the  inclemency  of  the  season,  to 
near  low  water  mark ; the  point  aimed  at  in  our  original  design, 
for  the  work  of  an  earlier  and  more  temperate  period.” 

“ We  knew  our  work  was  difficult  enough  ; and  the  only  struct- 
ure of  the  kind  in  this  country.  But  we  did  not  know  that  it 
was  so  singular  a proof  of  the  effects  of  persevering  industry  in 
any  country.  In  a letter  from  William  Weston  Esq.  to  Richard 
Peters , he  writes  : — 

“ Gainsborough  (in  England ) 

4:th  May , 1803. 

“ I most  sincerely  rejoice  at  the  final  success  that  has  crowned 
your  persevering  efforts,  in  the  erection  of  the  western  pier  ; it 
will  afford  you  matter  of  well  founded  triumph,  when  I tell  you, 
that  you  have  accomplished  an  undertaking  unrivalled  by  any 
thing  of  the  hind  that  Europe  can  boast  of.  I have  never  in  the 
course  of  my  experience,  or  reading,  heard  of  a pier  founded  in 
such  a depth  of  water,  on  an  irregular  rock,  affording  little  or  no 
support  to  the  piles.  That  the  work  should  be  expensive — ex- 
pensive beyond  your  ideas — I had  ho  doubt ; the  amount  there- 
of, with  all  the  advantages  derived  from  experience,  I could  not 
pretend  to  determine ; and  if  known,  would  only  have  tended 
to  produce  hesitation  and  irresolution  in  a business,  where  no- 
thing but  the  most  determined,  unceasing  perseverance,  could 
enable  you  to  succeed.  However,  now  “ all  your  toils  and  dan- 


40 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


gers  o’er”  I heartily  congratulate  you  on  the  result:  not  doubt- 
ing but  the  completion  will  prove  as  honourable  to  you  as  bene- 
ficial to  the  stockholders.” 

“We  give  this  extract  for  the  satisfaction  of  the  stockholders ; 
who  must  be  convinced,  that  their  money  has  been  applied  to 
an  object  of  great  difficulty  and  magnitude  ; in  which  expence 
was  neither  to  be  calculated  or  spared.” 


Nor  should  the  following  communication  from  the  President  he 
omitted:  it  contains  facts  and  information , which  we  hojpe  will 
satisfy  all  who  are  hereafter  engaged  in  such  structures , of  the 
necessity  of  covering  them. 

“After  many  fruitless  attempts  by  others,  to  raise  funds,  and 
institute  plans  for  erecting  a Permanent  Bridge  over  the  Schuyl- 
kill, I was  fortunate  enough,  through  many  difficulties  and  much 
opposition,  to  obtain  (owing  to  its  own  merit,  urging  on  and  as- 
sisting my  perseverance)  the  law  under  which  the  erection  of 
the  present  structure  has  been  effectuated.  I hold  it  therefore 
a duty  peculiarly  incumbent  on  me,  who  originated,  and  have 
faithfully  laboured  in  the  execution  of  an  enterprize,  in  which 
so  many  have  embarked  their  property,  to  make  an  effort  for 
the  completion  and  safety  of  a w^ork,  on  which  the  value  of  their 
advances  so  materially  depends. — Under  these  impressions,  I 
bring  before  you  the  subject  of  covering  the  Bridge ; and  herewith 
present  several  drafts  of  covers,  adapted  to  the  frame.  From 
the  time  of  the  first  idea  of  a wooden  superstructure,  I have 
never  wavered  in  my  opinion  of  the  indispensable  necessity  of 
the  cover.  I was  surprised  (a  long  time  after  I had  conceived 
it  to  be  a general  sentiment)  to  find  myself  in  a minority  on  this 
subject,  though  I was  not  entirely  alone.  I have  reason  now  to 
hope  that  the  sentiments  of  several  of  the  Directors  and  great 
numbers  of  the  Stockholders  have  materially  changed ; or  re- 
turned to  original  impressions.  I have  been  accustomed  to  this 
situation  in  many  of  the  most  important  parts  of  the  work,  and 
subjects  connected  with  it.  I have  now,  as  heretofore,  waited 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


41 


for  the  candour  of  the  Board  and  Stockholders  to  produce  con- 
victions ; and  have  generally  been  gratified  by  the  event.  In 
some  former  communications  it  will  appear,  that  I have  never 
approved  of  painting  or  coating  with  composition  or  resinous  sub- 
stances, the  surface  of  unseasoned  or  massive  timber.  I gave 
my  reasons  for  this  opinion,  which  comport  with  long  exper- 
ience and  observation,  however  singular  it  may  appear.  I en- 
deavoured to  prevail  on  the  Board,  or  the  building  committee, 
to  cause  the  straight  timber  to  be  bored  through  the  heart ; that 
the  air  might  pass,  and  the  sap , there  evaporate  ; which,  when 
confined,  feculates,  and  sooner  or  later,  rots  all  large  timber. — 
Since  this  has  not  been  done,  I am  not  displeased  that  the  tim- 
ber is  splitting ; and,  through  crevices,  giving  opportunities  of 
escape  to  this  intestine  and  deadly  foe.  Casing  of  such  timber 
with  lead , tin , copper  or  wood , in  immediate  contact,  and  thereby 
closing  the  pores  and  preventing  the  emission  of  the  feculating 
sap , I have  endeavoured  to  shew  to  have  been  found,  in  most 
instances,  worse  than  fruitless  ; because  mischievous.  Nothing 
has  been  proved  so  effectual,  as  covering  the  whole  of  a frame, 
constructed  of  large  timber,  with  a roof ; and,  at  the  sides,  ex- 
cluding rain,  without  preventing  an  uninterrupted  circulation  of 
air.  The  cover  I propose  is  calculated  to  be  sufficiently  strong 
for  its  own  support ; but  if  tempests,  uncommonly  violent  assail 
it,  the  covering  may  blow  away  before  the  frame  can  be  injured. 
The  light  sails  may,  by  sudden  squalls,  be  detached  and  yet  the 
ship  remain  staunch.  These  causes  of  apprehension,  have,  how- 
ever, never  struck  me  with  any  force.  Bare  and  improbable 
possibilities  ought  not  to  be  subjects  of  reasonable  and  sober 
calculation,  What  is  certain  far  over-balances  conjectural  prog  • 
nostics. — The  bridge  if  left  uncovered , will  most  assuredly  decay  in 
ten  or  twelve  years.  Experience  is  the  best  teacher  in  all  cases. — • 
The  modes  of  protection  proposed  in  these  drafts,  have  proof  to 
support  them,  drawn  from  long  and  Respectable  experiment. 
Among  others  the  iSchaaffhausen  bridge  was  a strong  instance. 
It  had  been  by  its  cover,  effectually  preserved  from  decay  for 
thirty  eight  years)  and  was  perfectly  sound,  at  the  time  the  French 


42 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


destroyed  it.  We  have  never  heard  of  its  being  injured  by  tem- 
pests, though  in  a situation  much  exposed  to  them.  In  the 
eleventh  report  to  the  British  Parliament,  by  the  Commissioners 
of  Land  Revenue,  dated  February  6th,  1792,  it  will  be  found 
stated,  from  settled  facts,  that  timber,  secured  in  the  manner 
here  proposed,  is  of  very  long  duration 

“Ships  built  under  cover  are  the  most  durable.  In  Venice, 
ships  have,  for  a long  course  of  time  been  built  and  preserved 
under  cover.  That  practice  has  also  been  introduced  into  Sweden ; 
and  is  mentioned  by  Mr.  Necker,  in  his  treatise  on  the  finances 
of  France.  The  Venetian  ships  of  war  are  built  and  preserved 
from  the  weather  while  building,  under  sheds  covered  with  tiles, 
resembling  the  roofs  of  houses  ; supported  mostly  by  brick  walls 
on  each  side,  to  defend  the  workmen  in  winter,  from  the  inclem- 
ency of  the  weather;  which  walls  are  as  high  as  the  upper  parts 
of  the  ships  reach,  and  secured  by  cross  beams,  high  enough  to 
admit  of  ships  being  launched  under  them.  The  sheds  cover  the 
ships  completely  on  both  sides  ; but  are  open  at  the  stem  and  stern : 
only  projecting  a few  feet  farther  out ; and  there  they  have  tem- 
porary covers  of  boards  to  keep  out  the  rain.  Eiyhteen  large 
ships,  some  pierced  for  80  guns  had  been  thus  preserved , perfect- 
ly sound  (in  1792)/or  fifty  nine  years , under  the  sheds.” 

“ I contrast  with  the  foregoing  facts,  those  I have  collected 
on  the  subject  of  timber  generally  ; and  those  relative  to  the  un- 
covered wooden  bridges  in  America,  particularly.  It  is  to  be 
regretted  that  all  these  structures  are  thus  destitute  of  the  means 
of  preservation.  I now  confine  myself  to  the  account  of  them 
I recently  received  from  Mr.  Timothy  Palmer  ; in  a letter  dated 
the  10th  of  December  last,  in  these  words  : ” — “ To  some  ques- 
tions you  put  to  me  some  time  since,  relative  to  the  durability 
of  timber  bridges , without  being  covered , sides  and  top,  I answer, 
from  the  experience  that  I have  had  in  New  England  and  Mary- 
land— that  they  will  not  last  for  more  than  10  or  12  years , to  be 
safe  for  heavy  carriages  to  pass  over.  The  bridge  near  New- 
buryport,  over  the  Merrimack,  was  built  in  the  year  1792.  It 
was  repaired  in  the  year  1802.  The  bridge  at  Andover,  across 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


48 


the  same  river,  was  built  in  1793.  It  was  rebuilt  in  1803. 
Piscataqua  bridge,  near  Portsmouth,  (N.  II.)  was  built  in  1794. 
I believe  there  have  been  no  repairs  since,  except  the  Draw. 
But  I have  lately  been  informed  it  teas  much  decayed , and  is  to 
be  repaired  next  season.  The  bridge  tfat  I built  over  the 
Potomac  at  Georgetown,  in  1796,  is  not  safe  for  heavy  teams  to 
pass  over.  Some  have  tried  paint  in  the  joints,  others  turpentine 
and  o«7,  but  all  to  no  great  effect.  1 am  an  advocate  for  weather 
boarding  and  roofing,  although  there  are  some  that  say  I argue 
much  against  my  own  interest.  Notwithstanding,  I am  deter- 
mined to  give  my  opinion  as  appears  to  me  to  be  right.  And 
it  is  sincerely  my  opinion,  that  the  Schuylkill  bridge  will  last 
30  and  perhaps  40  years  if  well  covered — You  will  excuse  me 
in  saying  that  I think  it  would  be  sporting  with  property,  to 
suffer  that  beautiful  piece  of  architecture  (as  you  are  pleased 
sometimes  to  call  it)  which  has  been  built  at  so  great  expence 
and  danger,  to  fall  into  ruins  in  10  or  12  years  /”  Need  much  be 
added  on  the  subject  generally,  after  these  statements,  and  re- 
marks of  a practically  intelligent,  and  worthy  man.” 

“ Never  then  conceiving,  that  any  objections  would  be  made 
to  covering  the  bridge,  I furnished  several  sketches  for  covers 
(as  no  person  better  qualified  would  do  it,)  contemporaneously 
with  Mr.  Palmer's  drafting  his  plan  ; and  always  considered  the 
cover  as  much  a part  of  the  plan,  as  the  frame.  Knowing  the 
liability  of  timber  uncovered  to  decay,  I should  not  have  thought 
it  justifiable  to  invite  subscriptions  to  our  stock,  unless  I had 
taken  it  for  granted,  that  the  bridge  would  be  protected  by  some 
cover.  I prevailed  on  Mr  Palmer  to  suffer  me  to  alter  his  plan, 
in  several  important  particulars ; with  a view  to  my  design  for 
a cover.  To  this  he  liberally  consented ; and  now  considers 
these  alterations  to  be  valuable  improvements;  and  has  declared 
his  intention  to  adopt  them  in  all  his  future  plans  for  bridges. 
The  masonry  too  was  calculated  by  Mr.  Vickers , agreeably  to 
drafts  furnished  by  me,  for  a cover  similar  to  that  marked  No. 
1.  delineated  by  Mr.  Adam  Traqaair  from  my  sketches.  I 
mention  these  facts,  not  with  any  view  to  individual  merit,  but 


44 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


to  shew  contemporaneous  opinions ; for  1 communicated  every 
thing  to  those  with  whom  I acted,  as  I occasionally  met  them. 
I presented  an  estimate  (as  correct  no  doubt  as  those  generally 
are)  calculated  for  this  design  : made  at  my  request  by  Mr. 
William  Garrigues  and  Mr.  Samuel  Robinson , then  superinten- 
dant.  It  may  be  applied  to  any  other  with  no  great  variation. 
It  amounts  to  eight  thousand  dollars,  a sum  bearing  no  impor- 
tant proportion  to  the  loss  of  capital,  by  the  decay  of  the  struct- 
ure on  which  it  has  been  expended.  No.  2 and  3,  are  other  de- 
signs for  covers,  which  I have  procured  to  be  made.  No.  2 is 
an  improvement  on  the  first  sketch,  made  with  the  assistance 
of  Mr.  Dorsey  and  Mr.  Traquair.  Mr.  Owen  Biddle  furnished 
the  sketch  No.  3.” 

“ It  is  a mistake,  in  my  opinion,  into  which  some  respectable 
gentlemen  have  fallen,  that  the  timber  will  be  benefitted  by  re- 
maining, for  a season,  uncovered.  The  leakages  during  rains, 
or  the  meltings  of  snows,  percolating  through  almost  all  the 
joints  of  the  frame  and  the  platform,  sufficiently  refute  this  idea. 
Every  week  and  month  this  finish  to  our  work  is  unnecessarily 
delayed,  is  an  advance  to  ruin.  No  time  should  therefore  be 
lost  in  preparations  for  the  cover,  which  I have  always  con- 
sidered as  a part  of  the  original  plan  ; and  not  a new,  or  addi- 
tional measure,  though  the  exact  design,  or  elevation,  was  not 
specially  fixed.” 

“No  person  can  regret  more  than  I do,  the  unforeseen  but 
inevitable  expenditures  of  the  stockholders.  None  can  give 
them  more  credit  than  I do  for  their  patience,  under  long  and 
unpleasant  privations.  These  will,  however,  now,  with  the 
success  of  our  work,  be  remunerated.  But  it  is  their  interest, 
and  our  duty,  to  secure  what,  with  uncommon  difficulties,  and 
such  heavy  expences,  has  been  accomplished.  Their  stock  will 
be  appreciated,  when  the  object  of  it  is  rendered  in  its  duration , 
as  well  as  other  attributes,  really  'permanent.  It  would  be  a re- 
flection upon  their  understandings,  and,  with  the  knowledge  we 
have  on  the  subject,  a breach  of  our  trust,  to  practice  a danger- 
ous and  false  oeconomy,  and  thereby  incur  the  penalty  of  certain 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


45 


destruction.  I beg  the  excuse  of  the  board  for  giving  my  sen- 
timents at  length  on  the  subject.  It  is  one  on  which  I thought 
it  my  duty,  whatever  may  be  the  result,  to  be  explicit.”  * 

RICHARD  PETERS. 


*The  following  notes,  omitted  to  be  inserted  in  page  34,  are  here 
added. 

“ Grouted.”  Grout  is  mortar  of  the  same  proportions,  in  its  com- 
ponent parts,  with  that  used  in  the  common  way.  But  this  is  in  a fluid 
state ; and  from  time  to  time,  poured  on  the  courses  of  masonry,  as  the 
work  is  in  progress.  It  searches  out,  and  fills,  every  vacancy  ; and  com- 
pletely embodies  the  mass.  All  masonry,  faithfully  built,  should  be  thus 
treated.  Contract  work  is  too  often  slighted,  to  save  the  materials  of 
common  cement;  brick  walls  as  well  as  those  of  stone  should  b z grouted. 
In  large  works  it  is  peculiarly  necessary. 

“ Tarras”  is  a species  of  lime,  procured  from  Holland  (called  Dutch 
farms')  and  several  parts  of  the  European  Continent . It  has  the  quality 
of  becoming  insoluble  (or  hardening)  under  water  ; like  common  lime,  in 
atmospheric  air.  It  is  a substitute  for  Puzzolan  earth,  found  in  Italy,  in 
the  vicinity  of  Volcanoes  ; it  being  volcanic  matter. 

Welch  Lime , in  a considerable  proportion  was  used  ; a sufficient  quan- 
tity of  tarras  not  having  been  procured,  and  no  difference,  in  their  qual- 
ities or  effects,  was  perceived.  This  lime  is  found  on  part  of  the  coast 
of  Wales ; and  is  said  to  be  thrown  up  by  the  sea , on  its  shores.  It  is 
believed  to  have  calcareous  matter  (which  abounds  in  the  ocean,  as  well 
as  in  the  earth)  for  its  basis,  combined  with  fixed  air  or  carbonic  acid ; as 
is  our  common  lime  stone.  But  no  analysis  was  made  ; its  effects  only 
being  the  objects.  In  the  Spanish  West  India  Islands , they  use  marine 
productions  in  cement,  for  coating  or  rough  casting , impervious  to  water, 
or  moisture.  They  may,  possibly,  be  of  the  nature  of  Welch  lime:  and, 
with  careful  search,  such  useful  substances  may  be  found  on  our  shores  ; 
or,  in  our  country,  tarras , or  some  earth  of  similar  qualities  may  be  dis- 
covered. In  flamaica  they  have  an  earth,  which  answers  every  purpose, 
of  either  puzzolan , or  tarras. 


46 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


Address  of  the  President  and  Directors  at  the  close  of  the  ivork. 

“ At  the  close  of  a work  so  important  to  you,  and  so  advan- 
tageous to  the  community,  as  that  of  the  Permanent  Bridge 
which  we  now  deliver  over  to  our  successors,  in  a state  to  every 
useful  purpose  complete,  it  might  he  expected,  that  some  specific 
enumeration  of  its  various  difficulties,  and  the  impediments 
which  rendered  it  dilatory  and  expensive,  should  be  given. 
But  in  the  course  of  the  undertaking,  every  circumstance,  wor- 
thy of  notice,  from  time  to  time  occurring,  has  been  detailed  and 
published  in  the  reports  of  our  Building  Committee ; with  an 
attention  and  constant  regard  to  correctness  of  representation, 
which  has  marked  their  conduct,  from  the  commencement  to 
the  end  of  this  arduous  enterprize.  The  whole  has  been  under 
the  view  of  the  Stockholders,  who  have  evinced  their  approba- 
tion, by  continuing  in  the  exercise  of  the  trust  confided  to  them, 
the  President  and  the  major  part  of  the  Directors,  as  they  were 
originally  chosen.  This  mutual  confidence  has  animated  us  in 
the  discharge  of  a duty,  often  laborious,  frequently  perplexing, 
and  always  exposing  us  to  responsibility  for  measures,  taken 
under  emergencies,  sudden,  difficult,  imperative,  and  requiring 
large  and  unlooked  for  expenditures.  The  whole  was  new  to  us; 
and  some  parts  of  the  work  unexampled  in  any  country.  W e 
could  obtain,  in  exigencies  the  most  pressing,  no  immediate  as- 
sistance, from  persons  either  scientifically  or  practically  skilled, 
in  some  of  the  most  difficult  and  dangerous  portions  of  the  erec- 
tion. We  were  therefore  under  the  necessity  of  proceeding, 
with  such  auxiliaries  as  we  could  obtain  (in  which  we  have  gen- 
erally been  peculiarly  fortunate)  and  risquing  both  public  opin- 
ion, and  the  funds  of  our  constituents,  on  the  result.” 

“ In  situations  the  most  hazardous  and  untried,  we  had  not 
the  encouragement  or  consolation  of  general  opinion.  We  la- 
boured with  persevering  industry  against  it ; knowing,  as  we  did, 
that  our  fellow  citizens  had  even  less  experience  to  direct  their 
judgment,  than  ourselves.  We  were  satisfied  that  our  object 
was  worth  the  boldest  attempt ; and  that  without  the  accom- 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


47 


plishment  of  what  really  was,  as  it  appeared  in  its  earliest  stages, 
the  most  arduous  part  of  our  project,  the  work  must  be  aban- 
doned. Success  crowned  our  perseverance.  Prom  this  we  claim 
no  other  merit,  than  that  of  having  set  an  example  to  others,  who 
may  be  engaged  in  works  so  unpromising ; attended  with  sim- 
ilar risques,  and  affording  only  a choice  of  difficulties.  In  our 
situation,  what  in  the  common  course  of  things  might  be  stiled 
oeconomy , would  have  been  ruinous  parsimony.  Yet  whenever 
real  economy  could  be  practised,  we  have  regarded  it  with  the 
most  scrupulous  attention.  A very  great  proportion  of  the  ex- 
penditures, was  forced  upon  us  by  inexorable  necessity.  The 
fruits  of  them  are,  for  the  most  part  invisible ; large  disburse- 
ments having  been  inevitably  applied  to  the  coffer  dams,  in  all 
their  variety  of  casualty  and  dangerous  vicissitude — to  the  sub- 
aqueous, expensive,  and  difficult  parts  of  the  piers,  and  the 
foundations  of  the  abutments.  Participating,  ourselves,  in  either 
the  success  or  failure  of  the  design,  we  relied  on  the  candor  of 
our  fellow  Stockholders.  Impressed  with  a conviction  of  having 
acted  from  motives  the  most  upright,  we  trusted,  in  every  event, 
in  their  sense,  and  our  consciousness,  of  our  integrity  of  inten- 
tion, and  unremitting  regard  to  our  duty.  These  are  all  the 
observations  we  deem  necessary,  as  they  respect  unavoidable 
expenditure.  We  have  made  them,  as  we  shall  make  others, 
not  because  we  deem  ourselves  under  any  necessity  of  justifying 
our  conduct ; but  to  recall  to  your  recollection,  for  your  own 
satisfaction,  past  circumstances,  which  have  attended  the  great 
work  you  have  so  meritoriously  supported  ; and  to  fix  your 
attention  to  future  prospects.’’ 

“As  to  what  regards  the  other  solid,  durable,  and  visible  parts 
of  the  work,  and  the  mode  of  performing  it,  as  well  as  those 
which  maybe  deemed  ornamental , these  must  be  left,  for  inspec- 
tion, to  the  structure  itself,  which  will  furnish  its  own  eulogy. 
We  are  happy  to  believe  it  meets  with  general  approbation. 
We  have,  throughout,  studied  simplicity,  strength,  and  dura- 
bility ; and  have  expended  on  ornament  no  more  than  our  sense 
of  propriety  justified.  We  could  not  suppose,  that  those  who 


48 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


had  so  laudably  suffered  privations  of  immediate  profit,  were  so 
absorbed  in  calculations  merely  pecuniary,  that  they  would  have 
been  contented  with  a fabrick  disgraced  by  savings  unseemly 
and  sordid.  We  considered  ourselves  bound  to  exhibit  at  the 
entrance  of  our  city,  a structure  worthy  of  the  place  of  its  estab- 
lishment. We  were  supported  in  every  thing  relating  to  the 
novel,  but,  in  our  opinion,  elegant  exterior  of  the  cover,  as  well 
as  in  the  measure  itself,  by  the  express  approbation  of  a most 
respectable  meeting  of  Stockholders.  The  draft  by  which  it 
was  executed  (some  necessary  additions,  and  indispensable,  but 
not  extensive  alterations  excepted)  was  at  that  meeting,  produced 
and  examined.  It  fully  answers  our  expectations : and  appears 
to  have  satisfied  those  who  originally  entertained  objections 
against  it.  This  finish  not  only  adds  beauty,  but  affords  pro- 
tection, to  a structure  which  will  very  long  remain  a monu- 
ment of  public  spirit,  as  well  as  a testimony  of  persevering, 
successful,  and  well  directed  private  enterprize.  It  will  also,  at 
no  distant  period,  amply  retribute  all  pecuniary  advances.  Our 
tolls  have  already  nearly  trebled  in  nett  amount.  They  continue 
to  advance,  from  causes  now  in  operation.  From  circumstances 
only  beginning  to  have  influence,  we  are  justified  in  calculating, 
not  only  on  a steady  and  customary  increase,  but  on  a progress 
accelerated  in  a flattering  degree.” 

“ Apparently  supplementary,  yet  essentially  connected  with 
our  object,  are  the  capacious  and  highly  commodious  wharves , 
we  have  deemed  ourselves  warranted  in  establishing,  on  both 
sides  of  the  river.  On  mature  consideration,  we  found  them 
absolutely  requisite  to  the  security  of  our  abutments  ; especially 
that  on  the  western  side.  On  that  side  considerable  improve- 
ments and  business  are  commencing.  On  the  eastern  margin  of 
the  river,  and  in  its  vicinity,  a new,  healthy  and  incalculably 
valuable  front  to  this  great  and  opulent  city,  is  rapidly  rising 
into  importance  and  extensive  utility.  Every  part  of  our  under- 
taking, so  successfully  accomplished  for  our  own  benefit,  gives 
also  a forcible  impetus  to  the  efforts  of  others.  Their  improve- 
ments add^value  to  the  bridge  property ; and  greatly  encrease 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


49 


the  revenues  of  the  Company.  Thus  will  the  advantages 
resulting  to  others,  from  our  spirited  labours  and  expences,  most 
profitably  reverberate  on  ourselves.” 

“We  lay  before  the  Stockholders  our  accounts  from  the  com- 
mencement of  the  work  ; classified  in  detail,  as  accurately  as  the 
mass  of  matter,  and  the  extensive  range  of  the  business,  will 
permit.  Our  books  and  minutes  are  ready  for  inspection.  Our 
time  and  anxieties  have  been  occupied  in  the  erection.  A future 
Board  will  have  leisure  and  opportunity,  and,  from  the  encreas- 
ing  revenue,  we  trust,  means , of  placing  the  pecuniary  affairs  of 
the  Company,  on  a footing  profitable  and  easy.” 

“We  beg  leave  to  present  our  sincere  gratulations  on  the 
success  of  an  undertaking,  commenced  under  circumstances  very 
discouraging  ; and  completed  with  every  prospect  of  well  earned 
emolument.  Of  its  stability,  we  have  not  the  most  distant 
doubt.  We  know  its  materials  are  so  well  selected;  and  its 
workmanship  so  faithfully  executed,  that,  both  the  quality  of 
the  one,  and  the  excellence  of  the  other,  will  bear  the  test  of  the 
most  critical  and  rigid  examination. 

Signed  by  order,  and  in  behalf  of  the  Board, 

RICHARD  PETERS,  President. 

December  2 6th:  1805. 


The  following  is  a short  statement , of  the  situation  of  the  Stock. 
1806. 

Original  Stock,  15000  Shares 

Additional. 7500 


Shares  authorized  to  be  issued ; but  not 
used.  ----- 


22500 


2000 


24500 


50 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


Whereof,  are  completed,  and  certificates 

issued. 19567 

Remain  on  hand,  not  sold  or  subscribed  4933 

24500 

Stock  issued,  19567  Shares  at  $10  each,  is  $195,670 

So  that  a clear  revenue  of  $12000,  will  pay  more  than  6 per 
cent  discount : and  this  will  happen,  when  all  the  debts  are  paid. 
These  are  now  funded  ; and  interest  paid  regularly.  They  must 
be  gradually  discharged. 

A small  proportion  of  shares  forfeited,  are  unsold;  but  these 
go  to  the  credit  of  the  Company ; and  lessen  the  aggregate  on 
which  dividends  are  to  be  struck. 

When,  by  the  rise  of  the  Stock  in  the  hands  of  the  Company, 
it  can  be  disposed  of,  so  as  to  commute  the  debt  for  Stock ; or 
to  pay  it  with  proceeds  of  Stock  subscribed  for,  and  delivered 
out  of  that  remaining  on  hand  ; then  the  Capital  on  which  divi- 
dends will  be  made,  will  encrease  by  the  addition  so  made. 
The  sum  mentioned  in  page  25  (218000)  as  being  the  probable 
amount,  was  conjectural,  and  is  not  exact.  The  following  is  as 
correct  a statement  as  can  now  be  made ; though  it  may  not  be 
entirely  accurate.  It  is  founded  on  the  probable  result  of  the 
year  1807. 

Number  of  Shares  completed  on  which  dividends 

will  be  made  is  19567  at  $10.  - - - $195,670 

The  sum  funded,  or  borrowed  on  loan,  is  $42000 
Interest  at  6 per  cent,  is  - - $2520 

The  probable  contingent  ex pences 

of  every  description.  - - 2356  67 

The  Revenue  for  1807,  will  be 
$14000,  at  least. 

Although  the  Revenue  is  fluctuating,  according  to  circum- 
stances annually  occurring,  yet  it  has,  on  an  average,  constantly 
progressed  in  an  encreasing  amount.  This  will  be  seen  by  re- 
curring to  the  sum  produced  by  the  floating  bridge,  as  hereto- 
fore mentioned,  and  that  now  arising  from  the  tolls  of  1807. 
There  is  yet  a small  proportion  of  unliquidated  debt. 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


51 


COFFER  DAMS  AND  PIERS. 

It  is  almost  impracticable  to  give  an  intelligible  description 
of  a coffer  dam,  without  technical’  language,  and  a draft  or  model. 
It  is  calculated  for  excluding  the  water  of  a river,  in  which  a 
pier  is  to  be  erected  on  a stable  foundation  ; and  for  this  purpose? 
to  give  access  to  the  bottom,  or  bed,  with  safety ; and,  without 
danger  or  impediment,  to  ensure  the  accomplishment  of  the 
work.  It  is  a fixture,  and  entirely  different  from  a batterdeau, 
which  is  a tight  vessel  or  box,  in  which  the  masonry  is  carried 
on  as  it  floats ; and,  being  at  first  calculated  for  the  depth,  or 
raised  upon  as  it  sinks  with  the  weight,  it  finally  arrives  on  a 
level  bottom,  or  bed,  (which  is  indispensable)  or  on  a grating > 
(supported  by  piles,  driven  into  a previous  and  deeply  covered 
bed,)  accurately  prepared  for  its  reception,  and  permanent  sta- 
tion. When  it  is  thus  fixed,  the  sides  of  the  box  are  detached, 
and  the  masonry  is  exposed : the  bottom  of  the  batterdeau  re- 
mains under  the  masonry,  either  on  the  bed  of  the  river,  or  the 
grating,  prepared  for  it. 

The  coffer  dam  for  the  western  pier,  was  composed  ©f  two 
ranges  of  piles ; some,  much  larger  than  others,  called  main 
piles  ; and  between  these,  less,  or  sheet  piles,  were  driven.  The 
ranges  were  nine  feet  from  each  other ; embracing,  within  the 
interior  range,  an  area,  several  feet  larger  than  that  of  the  lower 
course  of  the  masonry  of  the  pier.  They  were  connected  by 
cross  ties  placed  horizontally ; and  the  space  between  them  was 
filled  with  loam,  or  earth,  and  called  puddle;  consolidated  from 
the  bottom,  or  bed,  of  the  river,  to  a height  above  the  tide ; and 
forming  an  embankment  of  this  filling , so  as  to  exclude  and 
resist  all  access  of  water.  The  piles  were  about  42  feet  long ; and, 
being  sharpened,  and  shod  with  iron,  at  the  lower  ends,  were 
driven  (where  the  cover  on  the  rock  would  admit)  by  the  heavy 
ram  of  a powerful  pile  engine.  They  were  neatly  worked  and 
jointed,  and  united  with  each  other  by  tongues  and  grooves. 
The  ranges  were  secured  by  horizontal  frames  of  large  timber, 
well  strapped ; called  belts , of  the  shape  and  figure  of  the  dam  ; 


52 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


which  had  six  sides.  These  belts,  which  were  double,  to  receive 
the  piles  between  them,  were  alike  in  both  ranges ; and  con- 
nected with  each  other,  as  well  as  with  the  gratings  and  crossbeams, 
which  were  horizontally  placed  inside  the  dam,  to  resist  the 
pressure  from  without,  as  the  belts  were  calculated  to  sustain 
that  of  the  puddle ; the  whole  united  together,  like  a floor  of 
joists.  The  lower  belts  and  gratings  were  first  sunk,  as  near  the 
bed  of  the  river,  as  its  inequalities  would  permit.  The  others, 
to  the  number  of  five,  or  six,  were  sunk  successively,  with  the 
correspondent  gratings , at  proper  heights  or  distances  from  each 
other ; secured,  at  first,  by  anchors  and  cables , and  finally  fixed 
by  main  piles  driven  by  the  ram , so  as  to  form  a skeleton  of  the 
whole  dam  ; which  was  thereafter  embodied , by  driving  the  sheet 
piles , and  filling  in  the  puddle.  After  the  dam  was  completed, 
the  water  contained  in  it  was  pumped  out ; and  the  pumps  con- 
tinually kept  at  work,  while  leakages  required.  The  foundation 
was  laid  for  the  pier,  as  soon  as  the  dam  was  evacuated  of  most 
of  its  contents.  But  a long  course  of  labour,  danger,  and  appre- 
hension, occurred,  before  this  was  accomplished.  As  soon  as  the 
masonry  arrived  at  the  gratings , successively,  the  exact  shape 
and  size  of  the  pier  were  cut  away.  The  parts  of  the  beams, 
and  other  timber  of  the  gratings  remaining,  bearing  against  the 
stone  work  had  their  full  effect  in  supporting,  and  keeping  the 
dam  in  its  place. 

The  great  desideratum , in  such  works,  is  to  have  some  pervi- 
ous substance,  as  a footing  for  the  piles,  and  sufficiently  sound 
and  tenacious,  to  prevent  bottom  leakages , or  blowing , which  are 
often  fatal.  The  advantages  of  such  footing  were  denied,  in 
many  parts,  by  the  bareness  of  the  rock,  on  which  the  pier  is 
founded.  Owing  to  this  untoward  circumstance,  under  leakages 
constantly  annoyed  and  threatened.  A well  intended,  but  mis- 
taken endeavour,  to  evacuate  all  the  silt  and  mud  out  of  the 
dam,  was  arrested  in  time  to  save  the  whole  from  ruin.  The 
balance  to  the  pressure  of  the  exterior  head  of  water,  was  per- 
ceived to  be  on  the  point  of  being  destroyed : and  the  attempt 
at  a total  removal  of  the  whole  contents  of  the  dam,  was  fortu- 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


53 


nately  discontinued.*  The  under  leakages  were  highly  alarming 


*The  success  attending  the  first,  or  eastern  foundation,  being  laid  and 
bolted  on  the  rock , inspired  an  ardent  wish  in  all  interested  in  the  work, 
to  arrive  at  it,  for  the  establishment  of  the  western  pier . Difficulty  and 
danger  were  overlooked  ; and  only  the  object  regarded.  When  the  dam 
became  incessantly  leaky,  and  the  more  so  as  the  mud  was  evacuated,  a 
Committee  of  experiment  was  joined  to  the  Building  Committee,  at  their 
request.  Nothing  could  exceed  their  joint  exertions,  but  the  laudable 
zeal  with  which  they  were  animated  ; and  several  of  the  Stockholders 
voluntarily  rendered  their  assistance.  But  this  zeal  had  nearly  ruined 
the  object  of  it ; a considerable  time  before  the  close  of  these  well  in- 
tended efforts,  the  President  (who,  by  constant  attention,  was  minutely 
acquainted  with  the  principles  and  construction,  and,  of  course,  the  fort 
and  foible , of  the  dam,)  became  uneasy  ; and  intimated  to  the  mason,  that 
the  prosecution  of  the  attempt,  at  the  total  evacuation,  was  dangerous  in 
the  extreme.  The  mason  was  convinced  that  the  opinion  was  correct ; 
and  the  superintendant  declared  he  had  long  been  apprehensive  of  the 
consequences.  Under  the  hope  that  this  would  be  soon  perceived  by 
others,  a plan  of  the  present  artificial  foundation,  was  communicated  by 
the  President  to  the  mason  ; and  by  him  digested.  It  was  mentioned 
with  candour  and  caution  ; but  received  with  decided  disapprobation,  by 
the  greatest  number.  The  industry  and  redoubled  diligence  of  the  Com- 
mittee, were  viewed  with  painful  solicitude.  At  length  the  critical  period 
arrived,  when  it  appeared  highly  probable  that  another  day’s  work  would 
have  defeated  the  whole  enterprize.  It  was  known  that  nothing  but  ac- 
tual perception  of  the  consequences,  would  bring  conviction  ; which  all 
reasoning  (resisted  by  the  strong  desire  to  reach  the  rock)  had  failed  to 
produce.  Several  of  the  stoutest  labourers  were  set  to  work,  with  a view 
to  dig  a pit,  to  the  rock  ; which  was  not  more  than  3 or  4 feet  from  the 
then  surface.  They  had  not  pierced  the  mud  above  half  its  thickness, 
before  a column  of  water,  copious  and  alarming,  suddenly  gushed  up. 
This  produced  an  immediate  conviction,  of  the  unjustifiable  hazard  of 
any  farther  attempt  to  bare  the  rock  : and  the  factitious  foundation,  being, 
without  farther  hesitation,  agreed  to,  was  forthwith  commenced.  The 
principles  on  which  this  occurrence  was  predicted,  appeared  to  be  proved  ; 
not  only  by  this  specimen  of  the  effect  of  admitting  even  partial  aveuues 
for  the  water,  but  in  the  progress  of  the  masonry. — After  the  foundation 
was  completed,  the  leakages  lessened  very  perceptibly.  As  the  work 
proceeded  daily,  the  leaks  decreased : so  that,  in  a few  days,  either 
C/ymer*s  or  the  chain  pumps , could  free  the  dam  ; and  at  length  pumping 
was  intermitted,  for  long  intervals,  entirely.  Thereafter  to  the  close  of 
the  work,  the  chain  pump  was  sufficient;  and  only  occasionally  employed. 
The  water  flowed  round  the  work,  during  the  time  of  laying  a few  of 
the  first  courses  of  the  masonry  ; but  afterwards  it  remained  below,  and 
was  harmless  and  manageable. — Some  advantage,  no  doubt,  accrued,  by 


54 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


and  ceaseless.  The  dam  could  always  be  pumped  out,  as  low  as 
30  or  33  feet,  with  ease.  Probably , the  column  of  air,  equal  to 
the  area  of  the  dam  in  its  base,  assisted  the  substances  remain- 
ing in  the  dam,  to  balance  and  resist  the  exterior  pressure  ; 
which  could  not  be  overcome  to  a greater  depth  by  any  efforts, 
until  the  puddle , and  the  outward  barrier  of  stone  and  sand  (here- 
after mentioned)  had  acquired  the  last  degree  of  consolidation 
and  settlement:  and  even  then  it  was  uncertain  and  hazardous; 
as  appeared  by  the  result  of  the  attempt  before  stated. 

During  the  erection  of  the  pier,  a great  number  of  workmen 
and  labourers,  were  employed.  Those  engaged  within  the  dam, 
at  the  masonry,  working  without  apprehension  of  danger,  some- 


the  compactness  of  the  foundation  filling  the  dam.  But  there  always  had 
been  dangerous  and  constant  leaks  above  this  ; which,  until  the  pressure 
of  the  external  head  of  water  was  fairly  conquered,  and  entirely  over- 
balanced, by  the  additional  and  daily  encreasing  weight  of  the  masonry, 
never  ceased  to  flow,  copiously  and  perilously.  The  exertions  of  the 
Committee  were  not  only  meritorious  in  their  motive,  and  facilitated  the 
laying  the  artificial  foundation,  but  proved,  incontestibly,  the  unavoidable 
necessity  of  the  step.  And  this  was  a point  of  no  small  importance,  in 
a work  which  depended  so  much  on  public  opinion,  to  induce  farther 
advances  for  its  prosecution. 

The  dam  was  so  pressed,  and  became  so  critically  debilitated,  towards 
the  last  stages  of  the  evacuation  of  the  mud  and  silt,  that  the  breaking  of 
a single  cross  beam , had  nearly  wrecked  it.  This  beam  broomed  and 
splintered ; and  in  its  diruption,  with  a loud  and  violent  explosion,  shook 
the  dam  throughout.  Another  beam  which  resisted  the  pressure  on  the 
failure  of  this,  had  been  fortunately  saved  from  being  cut,  to  admit  a 
pump.  The  weakening,  or  cutting  this,  would  have  gone  far  to  corn- 
pleat  the  destruction.  Thus  perilously  uncertain  are  coffer'  dams , on  the 
best  construction,  in  deep  water,  and  with  little,  or  partial  footing  for 
piles. 

These  circumstances  are  detailed,  to  shew  the  true  state  of  things,  with 
which  many  Stockholders  were  unacquainted ; and  were,  in  consequence, 
dissatisfied,  because  the  first  course  of  masonry  of  the  western  pier,  was 
not  laid  on  the  rock.  They  supposed,  though  experience  has  proved 
the  contrary,  that  the  artificial  foundation  would  be  found  incompetent : 
and  some  yet  conceive,  the  rock  could  have  been  bared  without  danger. 

The  statement  will  also  serve  as  a caution,  to  all  who  in  future  engage 
in  such  difficult  tasks,  to  avoid,  however  desirable  the  object,  the  ruinous 
consequences  of  doing  too  much. 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


55 


times  by  the  light  of  many  lamps  and  lanterns,  on  the  bed  of  a 
deep  and  often  rapid  river,  in  an  enclosure  of  complex  and 
stupendous  construction,  incessantly  pressed  by  a formidable 
head  of  water,  exhibited,  in  connection  with  the  busy  scene 
above — an  interesting  spectacle — curious — novel — and  entertain- 
ing : yet,  at  times,  when  dangers  threatened,  or  casualties  oc- 
curred, not  unattended  with  perplexing  and  serious  anxieties. 

Extracts  from  a report  signed  by  the  superintendant  Samuel 
Robinson , (who  with  the  master  mason  Thomas  Vickers  formed 
these  reports)  are  subjoined  ; dated  November  17th  1801.  There 
are  several  of  these,  containing  a curious  history  of  difficulties 
and  details ; some  whereof  exhibit  useful  instruction.  They 
will  shew  some  of  the  embarrassments,  but  by  no  means  the 
whole,  attending  the  coffer  dams.  They  will  serve  as  guides , in 
future  undertakings  of  this  kind,  or  beacons  to  avoid  their  use, 
if  it  can  be  dispensed  with,  however  here  they  were  unavoidable. 
European  engineers  would  have  startled  at  placing  dams  on 
rocks,  which,  though  partially  covered,  were  in  many  parts  bare, 
or  so  scantily  overspread  with  mud,  or  any  tenacious  substance, 
as  to  afford  no  footing  for  the  piles.  Yet  they  succeeded,  in 
untaught  but  persevering  hands  ; whose  zeal  knew  not  profes- 
sional caution,  overlooked  danger,  and  supplied  the  place  of 
practical  talents.  The  expedient  of  forming  an  artificial  em- 
bankment of  stone  and  sand,  promiscuously  thrown  around  the 
footing  of  the  piles,  was  attended  with  compleat  success.  It 
saved  the  eastern , and  was  essential  to  the  security  of  the  western 
dam.  Many  hundred  perches  of  stone  were  used ; and  great 
quantities  of  sand  ; which,  having  been  washed  in  by  the  stream, 
consolidated  the  mass  which  now  forms  a perpetual  protection 
to  the  foundations.  Both  these  dams  were  exposed  to  ruin  ; by 
the  cross  ties  connecting  the  inner  and  outer  walls,  or  ranges  of 
piles.  The  space  between  them  was  filled,  or  puddled,  chiefly 
with  loam,  found  to  be  the  best  filling.  The  ties  were  horizon- 
tal, and  of  large  timber ; permitting,  under  each  of  them,  a sink- 
ing or  settlement  of  the  puddle  ; which  afforded  channels,  or 
courses,  for  constant  streams  of  heavy  leakages ; which  were, 


56 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


with  great  difficulty,  kept  under  by  many  pumps.  These  pumps 
were  worked  by  horses,  and  labour  of  men.  They  were  ingeni- 
ously contrived ; one  of  them  (far  superior  to  the  best  chain 
pump)  was  made  by  George  Glymer  of  Philadelphia , a self  taught 
mechanic ; capable  of  throwing  out  400  gallons  per  minute,  and 
not  subject  to  choak  with  sand,  or  even  small  pebbles,  chips  or 
filth.  This  pump  voided  nearly  half  the  water  evacuated  from 
the  dam.  Twelve  hundred  gallons  per  minute  have  been  (when 
hard  pressed)  ejected  by  all  the  pumps;  commonly  600  to  800 
gallons,  when  the  head,  encreased  by  the  tide,  augmented  the 
leakages.  The  mischiefs  attendant  on  the  ties,  were  the  only 
faults  experienced  in  Mr.  Weston's,  otherwise  perfect,  and  really 
admirable,  plan  of  the  western  dam.  The  eastern  dam  was  quad- 
rangular ; the  western , hexagonal ; the  salient  angles  acute  ; and 
pointing  up  and  down  the  stream  * 

The  report  also  shews,  how  little  service  was  afforded  by  our 
most  ingenious  mechanics,  out  of  the  line  of  their  several  trades. 
With  the  best  dispositions,  many,  as  well  mechanics  as  other 
citizens,  suggested  remedies  for  misfortunes,  or  supposed  guards 
against  them.  Some  assisted  in  executing  their  ideas  in  both 
dams,  but  not  a solitary  attempt  succeeded.  The  Company  are 
not  the  less  obliged ; nor  is  it  any  reflection  upon  them,  as  they 
had  as  little  experience  in  such  undertakings,  as  those  whose 
duty  compelled  bold  and  hazardous  measures,  on  which,  even 


* Hemlock  timber,  ( Pinus  Abies  Americana , Lin.)  had  nearly  defeated 
the  eastern  dam  : much  of  it  was  used,  on  account  of  its  cheapness.  But 
it  always  gave  way,  when  hard  pressed  ; and  its  failure,  at  several  critical 
times,  was  nearly  fatal.  The  belts  (which  serve  to  a dam , the  same  pur- 
poses as  hoops  to  a cask')  frequently  broke  ; owing  to  their  being  of  this 
wood,  and  flinty,  or  curly,  in  spots.  Straight  grained  hemlock,  entirely 
free  from  curl  or  flint , is  seldom  to  be  found  ; though  some  varieties  are 
better  than  others.  But  this  timber  never  should  be  depended  upon  ; 
either  for  strength,  or  durability.  It  was  excluded  from  the  western  dam. 
Some  hemlock  is  very  durable  ; but  the  appearance  of  this  wood,  is  so 
generally  alike,  that  it  is  imprudent  to  risque  the  chances  of  hitting  on 
the  kind  required  for  lasting,  or  strength.  Perhaps  there  may  be  some 
stages  of  growth,  or  time  of  felling,  as  it  is  with  other  woods,  more  or 
less  favourable  to  durability. 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


57 


professional  men,  versed  in  hydraulic  mechanism,  would  not 
have  risqued  their  characters. 

These  extracts  are  calculated  to  give  a general  idea  of  the 
difficulties,  unavoidable  expence,  and  magnitude  of  these  all 
essential  parts  of  the  undertaking.  A detailed  and  accurate 
description  would  extend  to  a greater  length,  than  is  contem- 
plated in  this  communication ; though  drafts  and  notes,  for  the  * 
purpose,  are  preserved. 


EXTRACTS. 

Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge , Nov.  17,  1801. 

“ Gentlemen  of  the  Building  Committee, 

“ In  compliance  with  your  directions  of  the  18th  October,  I 
now  lay  before  you  a statement  of  the  expence  incurred  in  erect- 
ing the  (eastern)  coffer  dam.  At  the  same  time  I beg  your  in- 
dulgence while  I point  out  some  of  the  difficulties  with  which 

we  had  to  combat.  When  Mr.  L ,”  [the  first  mason  and 

super  in  tendant,  who  misled  the  committee  into  an  inefficient 
plan  of  the  dam]  “ was  consulted  with  respect  to  this  dam,  he 
could  give  us  no  useful  information,  or  assistance.  But  in  this 
case,  as  upon  all  other  occasions  of  difficulties,  we  found  great 
assistance  from  the  acting  members  of  the  Building  Committee. 
We  explained  to  them  our  objections  to  raising  the  dam,  on  the 
proposed  plan,  of  the  three  rows  of  piling,  which  were  contem- 
plated. We  wished  to  throw  off  one,  as  there  was  not  sufficient 
hold  at  the  bottom , to  resist  the  great  pressure  of  such  a puddle ; 
we  were  afraid  of  its  bursting  outward.  A member  of  the  com- 
mittee, [the  president]  proposed  forming,  at  the  bottom  of  the 
river,  around  the  sides  of  the  dam,  a barrier  of  common  build- 
ing stone  and  sand,  which  when  raised  nearly  to  low  water  mark, 
he  thought  would  be  of  great  service.  The  plan  was  approved 
of  and  executed,  and  we  found  it  to  answer  the  purpose  com- 
pletely ; not  only  of  keeping  the  dam  in  its  place,  while  we 
proceeded  in  finishing  it ; but  was  of  great  use,  throughout  the 


58 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


whole  progress  of  the  work.  When  the  dam  w'as  sunk,  notwith- 
standing all  the  precautions  we  took,  it  burst  open  at  the  South 

West  corner,  we  then  had  recourse  to  clamping  it.”  [Mr.  R 

then  proceeds  to  give  a detailed  account  of  the  means  taken, 
with  the  advice  of  the  committee,  for  securing  the  dam.  It, 
however,  burst  again,  and  other  remedies  were  applied,  so  that 
• they  began  to  puddle.  Preparations  were  made  for  pumping, 
and  caulkers  were  employed  to  caulk  the  joints  of  the  sheet 
piling,  which  was  not  only  weak  and  without  substance  of  tim- 
ber, but  was  not  ploughed,  tongued,  or  grooved.  The  leakages 
increased,  and  some  of  the  puddle  was  dug  out,  and  the  residue 
rammed  ; yet  the  leaks  continued  along  the  pile  ties , which  upon 
every  trial  were  found  to  be  the  cause  in  a great  measure,  of 
the  misfortunes,  from  the  bad  construction  of  the  dam.  Reme- 
dies were  applied,  but  still  the  evil  prevailed.  Caulking  began 
to  be  efficacious,  and  enabled  them  to  pump  out  the  water,  and 
see  the  long  looked  for  bottom  of  the  river.]  “ When  the  water 
was  nearly  out  of  the  lower  side,  the  dam  suddenly  gave  way  at 
the  bottom,  caused  by  the  pile-casing  being  cut  square,  and  not 
accommodated  to  the  rugged  and  uneven  bottom.”  [The  blow- 
ing of  the  dam  and  bottom  leakages  were  alarming.  Plans  to 
counteract  this  evil  were  projected,  and  applied  with  great  la- 
bour and  exertions.  The  chain  pumps  were  worked  by  horses. 
Expectation  was  raised,  and  suddenly  disappointed.  The  dam 
gave  way,  behind  the  chain  pumps,  which  however,  “ were  kept 
at  work  by  the  labourers  with  great  resolution  ” until  the  car- 
penters had  secured  this  part  of  the  work  ; and  the  chain  pumps 
continued  at  work,  and  the  difficulty  was  overcome.  He  then 
states  the  reasons  why  the  disasters  occurred ; which  are  attrib- 
uted to  the  radically  bad  plan  of  the  dam,  which  was  now 
amended  “ by  throwing  off  the  outside  row,  and  substituing  “ the 
stone  barrier  in  its  room  outside ; and  the  puddle  inside,  which 
answered  the  purpose  effectually .’]  The  report  proceeds  to  state 
that, 

“ On  the  5th  September  the  first  stone  of  the  pier  was  laid. 
This  day  we  fortunately  kept  the  water  out  all  day  ; the  masons 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


59 


worked  13  hours  without  refreshment ; except  a little  drink.  We 
were  now  unanimously  of  opinion,  that  our  difficulties  could  be 
overcome  ; nevertheless,  we  were  obliged  to  work  night  as  well 
as  day,  when  the  tide  answered,”  [the  leakages  always  increased, 
owing  to  the  greater  head  of  water  at  high  tide]  “until  we  got 
above  low  water  mark.  W e were  then  at  ease ; but  little  pump- 
ing afterwards.  The  ivater  shoots  * laid  in  the  dam,  served  to 
regulate  the  tide  afterwards  on  all  occasions,  until  the  masonry 
was  finished  ” 


* Water  shoots  were  tubes , in  the  first,  and  trunks  in  the  second  dam, 
furnished  with  valves , or  shuttersy  so  as  to  permit  the  exit  of  water,  but 
to  repel  its  entrance , and  to  be  opened,  or  entirely  closed  at  pleasure. — 
They  were  placed  just  above  low  water  mark;  and  while  the  dam  was 
filling  with  puddle,  suffered  to  remain  open  for  the  flux  and  reflux  of  the 
tide  ; or  shut  when  circumstances  required.  The  dam  could  of  course 
be  always  emptied  to  low  water  mark,  without  pumping  ; and  by  clos- 
ing the  shoots,  the  tide  was  entirely  excluded.  But  a great  length  of 
time  elapsed,  while  the  puddle  was  filling,  and  consolidating,  before  it 
was  safe  entirely  to  exclude  the  tide.  The  water,  inside  the  dam,  was  a 
great  counter  balance  ; not  only  to  the  pressure  without,  but  to  that  of 
the  settling  puddle.  None  but  those  who  have  experienced  it,  can  con- 
ceive the  almost  resistless  force  of  earth,  while  consolidating  : and  the 
puddle  of  these  dams  consisted  of  several  thousand  cart  loads.  The  ad- 
mitting and  excluding  the  water,,  required  great  care  and  judgment ; and 
frequent  trials  were  made,  before  the  risque  was  encountered  of  the  entire 
exclusion  of  the  tide.  Before  the  earth  of  the  puddle  was  sufficiently  em- 
bodied, to  sustain  itself,  the  work  had  to  support  not  only  its  weight,  but 
the  immense  force  and  irregular  protrusions  and  pressures,  of  parts  differ- 
ently composed,  and  settling  faster  or  slower  than  others. 

Every  kind  of  earth,  or  substance,  any  wise  proper,  was  tried  for 
filling  or  puddle . 

Crude  brick  or  potter's  clay , settled  unequally,  and  cracked  when  other- 
wise consolidated.  Tempered  clay  was  little  better. 

River  mud  was  bad;  it  had  some  of  the  properties  of  clay. 

Gravel , was  good  for  the  filling  of  the  abutments ; but  not  proper  for 
the  dam.  So  was  it  with  sand. 

Smith' s ox  furnace  cinders  were  very  useful  in  stopping  ground  leaks; 
but  a sufficient  quantity  could  not  .be  procured. 

After  all  these  were  carefully  used,  in  every  way,  the  common  loam  or 
earth  free  from  roots,  stones,  or  foreign  matter,  was  preferred;  and  found 
perfectly  competent.  That  under  the  vegetable  mould,  was  the  best. 


60 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


“ We  would  be  ungrateful  if  we  did  not  here  express  our  ob- 
ligations to  those  members  of  the  Committee ; who  by  their 
personal  attention  and  counsel,  wherever  it  was  necessary,  con- 
tributed, in  a principal  degree,  to  the  final  success  of  our  under- 
taking ; which  had  all  along  been  attended  with  great  risque ; 
and  inconceivable  difficulties.  But  from  them,  and  from  our 
own  discoveries,  which  were  accidental,  we  derived  much  assist- 
ance. The  variety  of  schemes  suggested  by  those  who  occa- 
sionally gave  their  advice  and  opinion,  though  gratefully  attend- 
ed to  by  us,  were  of  no  manner  of  service.  We  mention  this 
merely  to  shew,  how  little  capable  of  judging  are  those,  who 
only  partially  attend  to  such  subjects ; and  are  not  practically 
engaged  therein.  In  case  of  failure,  our  having  attended  to 
every  thing  of  this  kind  which  have  seemed  to  be  of  any  use, 
would  have  been  a great  consolation  to  us.” 

The  expence  of  erecting  the  eastern  dam  is  detailed ; and 
amounts  to  $9491  88  cents. 

(Signed)  SAMUEL  ROBINSON,  f 


f The  eastern  dam  narrowly  escaped  being  rendered  abortive,  and  the 
project  stifled  in  its  infancy.  A most  important  beam , running  longitudi- 
nally (like  a main  girder,  in  a large  building)  and  on  which  depended 
many  smaller  ties , ramifying  from  it,  was  designedly,  and  wickedly,  sawed 
nearly  through,  with  a fine  saw,  on  a Saturday  night,  at  a time  of  swift 
water,  to  expose  the  dam  to  the  dangers  of  the  next  day  of  intermission 
from  work.  It  was  luckily  discovered  early  the  next  morning,  in  time  to 
guard  against  the  ruinous  consequences.  No  discovery  was  ever  made  of 
the  perpetrator.  It  was  known  but  to  a few,  and  kept  secret  (among  other 
reasons)  to  preclude  alarms  in  the  stockholders ; whose  apprehensions 
were  sufficiently  alive  from  causes  arising  from  common  circumstances. 
Where  advances  of  money  are  required,  by  voluntary  payments,  no  un- 
necessary terrors  need  be  raised.  Some  thought  the  first  loss  would  be 
the  best,  and  suffered  their  first  instalments  to  be  forfeited,  prematurely 
foreboding  the  worst.  Some  invidious  and  illiberal  persons  wished  ill  to 
the  undertaking;  as  had  appeared  on  various  occasions.  In  this  age  of 
speculation,  many  bets  were  laid,  for  and  against  the  final  success  of  the 
enterprize. 

The  stroke  was  aimed  at  a vital  part,  if  the  expression  be  allowable, 
and  it  was  adroitly  executed.  Conjectures  were  suggested,  but  none  could 
be  verified.  But  whether  it  was  done  from  mere  mischief,  or  motives. 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


61 


The  plan  and  execution  of  the  western  dam , were  in  perfect 
contrast  with  those  of  the  eastern.  But  the  difficulties  were  also 
incalculably  great,  owing  to  the  depth  of  water,  and  magnitude 
of  the  work ; and  the  expence  was  in  proportion.  It  would  oc- 
cupy too  much  room  and  time  to  do  justice  to  the  subject ; which 
would  be  instructive,  as  well  as  monitory.  The  only  hydraulic 
carpenter  of  any  experience,  gave  up  the  work,  at  an  early  stage 
of  it,  as  hopeless ; and  disgracefully  abandoned  it,  in  despair. 
An  ingenious  machinist , who  had  been  the  principal  dependance 
for  machinery  and  work  in  wood,  was  killed,  by  unaccountably 
getting  under  the  ram* *  of  the  pile  engine  of  the  western  dam  ; 


illiberal  or  sordid,  will  never  be  known.  It  had  however,  the  good 
effect  of  producing  caution.  A guard  was  thereafter  kept,  and  a watch- 
man is  yet  employed,  constantly  to  watch  the  work.  This  should  not  be 
neglected  in  all  such  undertakings.  Such  malicious  injuries  are  generally 
committed,  by  the  vilest  members  of  society  ; and  none  others  could  be 
suspected.  Slaves,  depraved  children,  and  cowardly  offscourings,  gene- 
rally perpetrate  secret  mischiefs  : and  it  is  often  indiscreet  to  take  too 
much  notice  of  them  ; as  the  hidden  perpetrator  may  not  be  discovered, 
and  others  may  take  the  hint.  This  is  now  mentioned,  because  some  have 
thought,  that  more  publicity  should  have  been,  at  the  time,  given  to  the 
circumstance.  Its  monitory  uses,  give  now  its  only  importance  to  this 
fact. 

* This  ram  weighed  about  750  pounds.  One  of  almost  double  the 
weight  was,  at  first  used.  It  was  soon  found,  that  a too  ponderous  ram 
defeated  the  object  of  it.  It  broomed  the  heads  of  the  piles,  shook  and 
weakened  the  engine,  took  too  much  time  in  its  movements,  and  shattered 
and  split  with  its  own  weight ; though  composed  of  the  best  live  oak. 
The  rams  used  at  the  piling  of  the  foundations  of  the  western  abutments 
and  wings,  were  less;  being  of  about  500  pounds.  They  moved  quickly, 
did  more  work,  and  required  less  power  to  move  them;  but  the  piles 
were  smaller. 

The  machinery  of  the  engine  at  the  dam,  was  moved  in  the  usual  way, 
seen  in  large  horse  mills,  by  four  horses,  on  a floating  stage,  anchored 
near  the  dam.  There  were  several  parts,  ingeniously,  and  uncommonly, 
contrived.  The  ram  was  elevated  by  a 6 or  7 inch  rope,  which  was  white  ; 
because  tared  yarn  was  found  more  inflammable,  and  otherwise  unfit 
The  friction  (though  the  sheave,  over  which  it  moved,  was  of  18  inches 
diameter)  was  so  great,  as  to  excite  a heat,  which  consumed  the  hemp 
internally,  when  the  surface  appeared  sound,  and  felt  cool:  so  that  the 
best  rope  soon  failed  ; and  chains , never  so  neatly  formed,  would  not  an- 
swer. The  ram  could  be  drove  to  60  strokes  in  an  hour;  but  40,  were 


62 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


which  he  had  himself  constructed.  The  building  committee 
where  thus  left  to  struggle  through  every  difficulty,  unaided  by 
any  person  practically  acquainted  with  such  work ; and  with  no 
scientific  assistants.  They  depended  solely  on  the  workmen, 
who  had  gained  some  experience  at  the  eastern  dam,  for  the 
farther  execution  and  fortunate  completion  of  the  work ; which 
they  faithfully  performed.  It  is  not  surprising  that  the  com- 
mittee should,  after  all  other  schemes  were  considered,  and  found 
fallacious  and  impracticable,  be  fully  sensible  of  the  risque  and 
difficulty  of  attempting  a new  and  untried  undertaking.  In 
their  report  of  the  31st  December  1802  they  thus  express  them- 
selves. 

“ Our  particular  duty,  as  a committee,  was  to  superintend  the 
execution  of  the  plan.  But  as  members  of  the  board,  we  cannot 
avoid  lamenting  that  the  dangerous  character,  of  the  river,  its 
extraordinary  depth  and  rocky  bottom,  forbad  any  other  mode, 
to  ensure  the  stability  of  the  piers,  than  that  which  necessity 
compelled  us  to  take.  Every  substitute  we  could  devise,  or  were 
informed  of,  even  though  some  were  only  plausible,  or  palpably 
visionary,  were  stated  to  Mr.  Weston , than  whom  there  are  few, 
if  any,  among  hydraulic  engineers  more  competent  to  judge. 
He  decidedly  advised  us  to  the  mode  we  have  adopted  ; warning 
us  of  the  difficulties  we  had  to  encounter.  lie  disinterestedly 
gave  instructions,  and  furnished  the  plan  of  the  coffer  dam , which 
is  a pattern  worthy  the  imitation  of  all  who  engage  in  such  en- 
terprizes.  After  experiencing  the  expence  and  difficulties  in 
erecting  our  eastern  pier,  we  had  no  small  apprehensions  in  un- 
dertaking the  present  work.  We  were  flattered  by  our  success  ; 

found  as  many  as  were,  with  prudence,  admissible.  The  rope  was  worked 
by  a vertical  cy Hinder ; on  the  principle  of  the  capstan  and  leading  block . 
This  cyllinder  was  thrown  out  of  gear,  by  a simple  operation,  produced 
by  the  weight  of  the  ram  ceasing  to  act  on  it,  when  detached  from  the 
traveller.  It  then  (being  operated  upon  by  the  weight  of  the  traveller) 
performed  a retrograde  motion,  so  as  rapidly  to  unwind  the  rope ; and 
the  traveller  instantly  followed  the  ram,  in  its  descent.  As  soon  as  the 
tongs  had  seized  on  the  ram,  the  cyllinder  was  again  in  its  place,  and 
progressed  in  its  duty.  The  horses,  relieved  when  fatigued,  constantly 
proceeded,  with  a steady,  but  somewhat  quick  pace. 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


63 


and  our  experience  was  in  no  small  degree,  essentially  useful. 
But  we  foresaw  additional  danger  and  expence  in  our  present 
object.  We  even  wished,  if  an  iron  or  wooden  superstructure 
were  intended,  to  propose  avoiding  the  sinking  the  present  dam 
and  erecting  this  pier,  by  adopting  an  extended  arch,  compre- 
hending the  breadth  of  the  river,  which  in  theory,  seemed  prac- 
ticable. We  know  that  no  iron  superstructure  of  such  a span  had 
been  executed.  We  sent  for  Mr.  Timothy  Palmer , of  Newbury 
Port)  a celebrated  practical  wooden  bridge  architect.  He  viewed 
our  site  and  gave  us  an  excellent  plan  of  a wooden  superstructure. 
But  he  pointedly  reprobated  the  idea,  of  even  a wooden  arch  ex- 
tending farther  than  between  the  position  of  our  intended  piers, 
to  wit,  187  feet.  He  had  at  the  Piscataway  bridge,  erected  an 
arch  of  244  feet ; but  he  repeatedly  declared  that,  whatever 
might  be  suggested  by  theorists,  he  would  not  advise,  nor  would 
he  ever  again  attempt  extending  an  arch,  even  to  our  distance, 
where  such  heavy  transportation  was  constantly  proceeding. 
We  therefore  found  ourselves  compelled  to  progress,  on  the  plan 
we  have  been  executing ; let  the  expence  or  difficulty  be  never 
so  discouraging.  Happily  we  have  thus  far  succeeded  ; but  it 
is  with  some  emotion,  we  look  back  at  the  dangers  we  have 
escaped.” 

t By  a report  of  December  26th  1803,  it  appears  that  (although 
the  work  was  not  then  finished,)  “ The  whole  of  the  stone  work 
from  its  commencement  consisted  of  105,780  feet  of  cut  and 
hammered  stone,  included  in  15,131  perches  of  masonry.  When 
it  is  considered  that  one  half  , at  least , of  this  was  erected  under 
water , it  is  not  extraordinary  that  the  work  should  have  been 
tedious,  difficult  and  expensive.” 

The  cut  stone  was  very  expensive  ; though  an  expedient  of 
cutting  the  faces  of  those  under  water  only  at  the  joints,  about 
two  inches  broad,  was  suggested  to,  and  adopted  by  the  mason. 

The  eastern  pier  is  40  feet  high  from  the  foundation,  and 
contains  3635  perches  of  masonry. 

The  western  pier  is  55  feet  9 inches  high  from  the  foundation, 
and  contains  6178  perches  of  masonry. 


64 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


Seeing,  then,  that  such  difficulties  and  unavoidable  expendi- 
tures attend  bridges  erected  on  piers,  especially  where  batter  - 
deans,  or  coffer  dams  are  used,  it  is  to  be  regretted  that  the  genius 
of  hydraulic  engineers  and  architects,  or  others,  whose  minds 
have  been  occupied  in  such  subjects,  has  not,  in  a long  course 
of  time  both  enlightened  and  active,  produced  some  practical 
specimens  of  single  arches,  of  such  span  as  to  supersede  the  use 
of  piers ; in  deep  and  navigable  streams,  at  least.  This  not 
having  been  done,  sufficiently  proves,  that  (however  plausible 
the  theory)  the  practice  has  not,  though  indubitably  desirable, 
been  thought  safe  or  justifiable.  There  have  been  sundry  plans 
proposed ; but  none  accomplished  on  an  extensive  scale.  Every 
projector  of  such  arches  or  inventions,  has  an  exclusive  confidence 
in  his  own  project ; and  some  of  them  pronounce  philippics  and 
denunciations,  against  bridges  on  piers.  The  expence  and  diffi- 
culties attending  these,  are  too  well  known,  to  be  disputed  ; or 
to  require  display  and  enumeration.  But  actual  experience, 
from  the  most  remote  times  to  this  day,  has  warranted  their 
being  employed ; preferably  to  untried,  however  ingenious 
schemes.  The  advantages  of  single  arches,  for  navigable  streams 
particularly,  are  obvious  ; and  experiments,  on  any  feasible  plan, 
are  devoutly  to  be  wished.  It  is  easier,  in  many  cases  to  vault 
over,  than  to  encounter,  difficulties  and  dangers.  But  the  ques- 
tion is,  who  can  afford  it,  or  will  take  the  risque  of  the  first  leap, 
in  an  expensive  operation.  Hitherto  no  very  extensive  single 
arch  has  been  hazarded  in  practice  ; unless  the  one  at  Weremouth, 
be  considered  as  a decided  example.  Yet,  at  the  time  of  erect- 
ing the  Schuylkill  bridge,  there  were  great  doubts  of  the  stability 
of  the  Weremouth  arch,  suggested  by  a respectable  English  En- 
gineer, who  went  expressly  to  view  it.  Insomuch  that  the  in- 
ventor, and  executor  of  that  work,  who  was  conversed  with, 
pointed  out  defects ; and  it  appeared  had  changed  and  improved 
his  plans,  in  after  erections.  It  would  have  been  unjustifiable, 
in  those  who  had  the  trust  of  other  persons  money,  to  put  it  at 
the  risque  on  a theory,  however  plausible.  When  engaged  in 
a plan,  dictated  by  experience  and  former  practice,  they  were 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


65 


compelled  to  hazard , by  necessity , in  the  progress;  and  justified  by 
success , in  the  event. 

Those  who  wish  to  indulge  their  curiosity,  and  exercise  their 
patience  on  such  subjects,  may  have  the  opportunity  afforded, 
by  the  perusal  of  the  voluminous  reports  of  the  “ Select  Commit‘ 
tee  ” of  the  British  Parliament,  “ upon  the  improvement  of  the 
Port  of  London  ” printed  in  1801. — The  advantages  and  disad- 
vantages, and  the  theory  and  practice  of  arches,  single  and  mul- 
tiplied— the  strength,  application  and  quality  of  materials — the 
uses  and  inconveniencies  of  piers — and  all  points  relating  to  a 
project  for  erecting  the  siugle  arch  before  mentioned,  over  the 
Thames , will  there  be  found,  learnedly  and  ably  discussed,  by 
men  of  the  first  talents,  both  professional  and  theoretical,  in 
Great  Britain. 

In  one  of  the  reports  there  are  two  elevations  of  bridges — 
one  with  a single  arch  of  iron,  600  feet  span , calculated  for  ves- 
sels “ to  pass  under  it  ” — the  other  of  a stone  bridge,  of  9 arches, 
on  piers , with  an  ingenious  plan  of  a draw , designed  to  exemplify 
a “ mode  of  admitting  ships  to  pass  through  it)  at  all  times  ; with- 
out occasioning  any  interruption  to  the  land  communication 
over  it.”  The  relative  and  positive  merit  of  these  and  other 
projects,  are  elaborately  and  scientifically  discussed  and  exam- 
ined, in  this,  and  several  precedent  reports. 


66 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


CHRONOMETRICAL  OBELISK. 

To  complete  the  usefulness  of  this  work,  a pyramidical  Pedestal,  sur- 
mounted with  four  Dials,  for  the  benefit  of  passengers,  is  erected  at  the 
eastern  entrance  of  the  bridge;  and  on  three  of  the  Tablets,  the  most  pro- 
minent facts  and  events,  occurring  in  the  construction,  are  recorded. 
This  small  Obelisk  (fifteen  feet  eight  inches  in  height  from  the  founda- 
tion, and  five  feet  square  at  its  Plinth')  is  of  white  marble,  on  a basement 
of  freestone , and  is  of  neat  and  simple  construction,  in  character  with  the 
masonry  of  the  bridge.  The  inscriptions  appear  to  be  composed  in  con- 
formity with  a correct  criticism  on  such  subjects,  as  expressed  by  the 
elegant  pen  of  the  late  Dr.  J.  Beattie.  They  are  calculated  “ to  convey 
to  the  traveller,  not  the  wit  of  the  composer,  but  some  authentic  information 
in  regard  to  the  object  that  draws  his  attention,  and  is  supposed  to  raise  his 
curiosity ” — “ They  are  simple  and  true ; and  as  concise  as  the  subject  will 
admit.”  In  imitation  of  the  Greek  and  Roman  inscriptions  “ mixtures  of 
verse  and  prose”  of  “ foreign  languages,”  and  of  narrations  too  much  en- 
cumbered with  abstract  remarks, — have  been  avoided. 

There  will  be  also  an  Equation  Table,  to  shew  the  difference  between 
the  time  marked  by  the  apparent , and  that  measured  by  the  real,  motion 
of  the  sun.  With  the  aid  of  these  accurate  and  curious  Dials,  and  the 
Table;  which  were  delineated,  with  scientific  precision,  by  Professor 
Patterson , a complete  Chronometer  is  obtained.  The  same  gentleman 
also  obligingly  furnished,  from  careful  observations,  inscriptions  of  the 
latitude  and  longitude,  and  the  variation  of  the  compass . 

These  objects  have  been  long  desired,  by  astronomical  and  philosophical 
characters  Their  advantages  are  obviously  great,  and  highly  creditable 
to  the  Company  ; who  have  thus  extended  the  public  utility  of  this  estab- 
lishment. 

With  copies  of  these  inscriptions,  taken  from  the  Tablets,  and  the  list 
of  tolls  established  by  law,  this  account  will  close.  The  statements  and 
remarks  have  been  made  with  no  other  views,  than  to  excite  others  to 
constancy  in  necessary  undertakings,  under  circumstances  appearing  never 
so  difficult  and  forbidding.  If  scientific  or  practical  knowledge  be  want- 
ing ; it  is  proved,  that  persistance,  with  even  common  talents,  can  effect 
the  most  valuable  purposes.  Nor  is  it  intended  to  hold  up  this  work,  as 
one  singularly  pre-eminent  over  all  others;  or  vainly  to  display  peculiar 
personal  merit;  though  in  some  of  its  parts  it  was  attended  with  unex- 
ampled difficulties;  which  were  overcome  by  unremitted  exertions.  If 
this  communication  should  convey  any  useful  instructions,  or  excite  to 
similar  perseverance,  its  end  will  be  attained.  If  it  should  invite  others, 
to  give  publicity  to  their  ideas  on  such  subjects;  and  to  impart  similar 
information,  of  the  improvements  made  in  various  parts  of  this  prosperous 
country  ; — rich  in  the  spirit,  industry  and  enterprize  of  its  citizens, — nq 
small  reward  will  be  obtained,  for  the  time  and  pains  bestowed. 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


67 


WESTERN  TABLET. 

THIS  BRIDGE 
was  erected 
at  an  expence  of 
near  300.000  Dollars, 
by  a Company 

Incorporated  the  27tli  of  April, 
in  Virtue  of  a Law, 
passed  the  16th  of  March 
1798. 

The  Coffer  Dams , 
Foundations, 

and  other  subaqueous  works, 
consumed  a great  proportion 
of  the  Expenditures. 

It  was  commenced, 
by  laying  the  first  stone  of  the 
EASTERN  PIER , 
after  many  difficulties  had 
attended  the  Dam, 
on  September  the  5th, 

1801. 

And  completed  for  passage,  January  1st, 
1805. 

The  Coyer  was  begun  and  finished, 

In  the  same  year. 


68 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


SOUTHERN  TABLET. 

Dimensions 
of  the 

BEID  G E. 

Length  550  feet. 

Abutments 
and  wings  750 
Total— 1300. 

Span  of  smaller  arches  each  150. 
of  middle  arch,  194  feet  10  inches 
Width  of  the  Bridge — 42. 
Curvature  of  the  middle  arch,  12. 
of  the  smaller  arches  10. 

The  Curves  are  Catenarian. 

Rise 

of  the  Carriage  way — 8 feet. 

Height , 

over  the  platform,  to  the 
Cross  ties — 13. 

From  the  surface  of  the 
River  to  the  platform, 
in  the  greatest  elevation,  31. 
Elevated 
above  all  Floods 
ever  known 
In  this  river. 

Inclined  Plane  to  Entrances;  3 1-2  Degrees. 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


69 


NORTHERN  TABLET. 

THE  EASTERN  PIER 
was  first  erected ; in  a 
depth  of  water  of  21  to 
24  feet,  in  a Coffer  Dam . 

The  lower  course  of 
Masonry  is  bolted  on  the 
Rock. 

THE  WESTERN  PIER , 
attended  with  greater  dif- 
ficulties, constant  hazard  and 
unavoidable  expense,  was 
commenced  in  the  midst  of 
an  inclement  Winter,  within 
a Coffer  Dam , of  original  and 
appropriate  construction ; 
in  which  800.000  Feet  of 
Timber  were  employed. 

The  depth  of  Water  from  the 
Rock  is  41  Feet. 

No  Pier  of  regular  Masonry , 
in  so  great  a depth  of  Water,  is 
known  to  exist  in  any  other  part 
of  the  World. 

The  Masonry  of  this  Pier,  was 
begun  on  Christmas  Day  1802  : 

And  erected  from  the  Rock  to 
low  Water  Mark,  in  41  Days  and 
Nights ; after  7 Months  had  been 
occupied  in  preparing  the  Dam, 
and  retrieving  its  Misfortunes. 

These  Piers  are  in  Length  71  Feet  6 inches, 
and  in  Thickness  30  feet  at  the 
bottom  ; battering  to  the  top ; where 
they  are  in  Length  60  Feet  10  Inches ; and  in 
Thickness  19  Feet  4 Inches. 

The  Height  of  the  Eastern  Pier  from 
the  Rock  is  40  Feet ; and  that  of  the 
Western  Pier  is  55  Feet  9 Inches.  The  first  contains 
3635  Perches,  and  the  latter  6178 
Perches  of  Masonry. 

The  Eastern  abutment , 18  Feet  thick,  and 
its  wings,  are  founded  on  the  Rock.  The  West- 
ern abutment , of  equal  Thickness,  and  its  wings, 
are  built  on  a platform  supported  by  Piles. 

Splay  of  the  wings,  60  Feet. 


A Statistical  Account  of  the 


EASTERN  TABLET. 

THE  BRIDGE 
is  in  itself  \ 
the  most  grateful 
Reward , 

expected  from  its 
Institution : — 

A Recompense , 

the  most  honourable  to  those, 
who  by  liberal  advances, 
and  long  Privations  of  Profit, 
unassisted  by  public  pecuniary  aid, 
Encouraged  and  Supported: — 
And  a Memorial , 
the  most  acceptable  to  those, 
who  by  enterprising,  arduous, 
and  persevering  exertions, 
ACHIEVED , 

This  extensively  beneficial 
Improvement. 


Schuylkill  Permanent  Bridge. 


71 


Rates  of  Toll,  according  to  law,  at  the  Schuylkill 
Permanent  Bridge. 


For  every  * Cents. 

1.  Foot  Passenger,  - I 

2.  Horse  or  Mule,  without  Rider  or  Harness,  ( Halter  excepted ,)  i 

3.  The  same , with  Rider,  ------  2 

4.  Head  of  horned  Cattle,  not  more  than  20  to  pass  at  one  time,  1 

5.  Living  Sheep,  Swine,  or  Calf,  ------  ^ 

Carriages  of  Pleasure. 

6.  Four  wheels,  drawn  by  four  horses,  -----  20 

Additional  Horse , each, 4 

7.  The  same,  drawn  by  two  horses,  - - - - - 12 

8.  The  same , drawn  by  one  horse,  - - - - 10 

9.  Two  wheels  or  Sleigh,  with  two  horses,  10 

Additional  horse , 4 

10.  The  same , with  one  horse,  ------  6 

Carriages  of  Burden. 

11.  Four  wheels  drawn  by  four  horses,  loaded,  - - - 17 

Additional  horse , each  4 

Add,  to  the  additional  horses. 

If  3 tons,  or  above  2 tons,  - 5 

4 tons,  or  above  3 - - - _ _ .15 

5 tons,  or  above  4 - 45 

6 tons,  or  above  5,  being  the  heaviest  weight 

allowed  to  pass,  - _ _ . _ _ j 35 

12.  same , with  produce  of  the  country,  wood  and  stone 

excepted, 12\ 

Additional  horse , each 3 

13.  The  same , with  manure  or  empty  - 8£ 

Additional  horse , 2 

14.  Four  wheels,  drawn  by  three  horses,  loaded  - - - 14 

15*  The  same,  with  produce,  except  wood  and  stone,  - - 10^ 

16.  The  same,  with  manure  or  empty,  - 7 

17.  Four  wheels,  drawn  by  two  horses,  loaded,  - - - 12 

1 8.  The  same,  with  produce,  except,  See.  - 9 

19.  The  same , with  manure  or  empty,  -----  6 


72 


A Statistical  Account,  &c. 


Cents. 


20.  Two  wheels  or  sled,  drawn  by  two  horses,  loaded,  - io 

Additional  horse , each  ______  4 

21.  The  same,  with  produce,  except,  &c.  - 7^ 

Additional  horse , 3 

22.  The  same , with  manure  or  empty,  - 5 

Additional  horse, 2 

23.  Two  wheels,  or  sled,  drawn  by  one  horse,  loaded,  - 6 

24.  The  same,  with  produce,  except,  &c.  - - - - 4} 

25.  The  same,  with  manure  or  empty,  - 3 

26.  Oxen  in  draught;  2 estimated  as  equal  to  1 horse. 


Sleds  of  heavy  burden,  to  be  estimated  as  four  wheel  carriages  of 
like  burden. 

RULES  ACCORDING  TO  LAW. 

Persons,  carriages,  or  cattle,  of  whatsoever  description,  passing  over 
the  Bridge  will  keep  to  the  right.  Offence  against  this  Rule  by  obstruct- 
ing the  Passage,  will  subject  the  Drivers  of  Carriages  to  back  out , and 
Drivers  of  Cattle  to  return,  and  enter  on  the  proper  direction,  under 
penalty  of  thirty  dollars. 

Carriages  of  heavy  burden  shall  pay  as  loaded,  which  contain  any  thing 
more  than  feed  for  two  days  journey. 

Carriages  of  light  burden  shall  pay  as  loaded,  if  not  wholly  empty. 

Loading,  if  not  wholly  produce,  is  not  entitled  to  diminution  of  toll. 
Loads  of  any  description  whatsoever,  exceeding  two  ton,  their  weight 
shall  be  truly  declared  by  the  driver,  previous  to  passing. 

Injury  done  to  any  part  whatsoever,  of  the  property  of  the  Bridge 
Company,  will  subject  the  offender  to  forfeiture  and  payment  of  thirty 
dollars,  and  of  being  liable  to  damages  for  further  torts.  Evasion  of  tolls 
is  injury  of  property. 

Published  by  order  of  the  Board  of  Directors. 

J.  DORSEY,  Treasurer. 

Philadelphia,  December  31,  1804. 

ERRATA. 

Minor  errors,  both  of  Orthography , Grammar , and  Punctuation , are 
left  to  the  reader  to  correct. 

In  page  9,  after  “ Mayor  and  Commonalty  ” insert  “and  their  suc- 
cessors.” 

In  page  50,  “6  per  cent  discount”  should  be,  “6  per  cent  dividend” 


